Issue 1 - Volume 13 - Mendip Times

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Welcome

WHAT a merry month May was, starting with the North Somerset Show and including a host of festivals, fairs and other events – Wrington made a week of it – and we have pictures from across the area.

There were arts trails in Cheddar and North Somerset showcasing the tremendous skills of local artists and crafts people – we feature many of them.

We meet some remarkable individuals this month: accountant David Exell is the oldest Briton ever to complete a 250km desert marathon; drummer Paul Brimble survived a stroke to star in a new health campaign by the British Heart Foundation; and Lydia Needle is on a mission to save our bees – through needlecraft.

We join young farmers at their county rally and meet the medical team who will be working behind the scenes at the Glastonbury Festival, just one of the big events we can look forward to this month.

Frome College girls’ U-16s are national football champions, while Chew Valley RFC just missed out on promotion – we have extended sport and what’s on sections – and we give you the chance to win tickets to the Yeovilton International Air Day. With all of our regular features and contributors, welcome to our 12th anniversary issue.

July 2017 deadline: Friday, 16th June 2017.

Published: Tuesday, 27th June 2017.

Editorial: Steve Egginton steve@mendiptimes.co.uk Mark Adler mark@mendiptimes.co.uk Advertising: Ann Quinn advertising@mendiptimes.co.uk Rachael Abbott rachael@mendiptimes.co.uk Publisher: Mendip Times Limited Coombe Lodge, Blagdon, Somerset BS40 7RG Contacts: For all enquiries, telephone:

01761 463888

or: email news@mendiptimes.co.uk or: letters@mendiptimes.co.uk www.mendiptimes.co.uk Design and origination by: Steve Henderson Printed by: Precision Colour Printing, Haldane, Halesfield 1, Telford, Shropshire TF7 4QQ Copyright of editorial content held by Mendip Times Ltd. and its contributors. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise without the express permission of the Publisher. The views expressed in this publication do not necessarily represent those of the publisher or its associates.

Front cover compiled by Steve Henderson

CONTENTS

Marathon man – David’s desert record

5

14

Making merry – dancers around the maypole

104

96

Jilly super – writer backs racehorse sanctuary

A step too far – Chew Valley miss out on promotion Plus all our regular features Environment ...................................6 Farming Mary James MBE ..........10 Food & Drink ...............................16 Internet and Crossword ..............28 Business.........................................30 Arts & Antiques ...........................44 Charities........................................54 Wildlife Chris Sperring MBE .......57 Walking Sue Gearing ....................58 Outdoors Les Davies MBE ..........60

Gardening Mary Payne MBE.......62 Health Dr Phil Hammond .............70 Caving Phil Hendy ........................75 Community ...................................78 Property ........................................82 Homes and Interiors ....................86 Music .............................................94 Riding Rachel Thompson MBE.....96 Sport ..............................................99 What’s On...................................107 MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2017 • PAGE 3

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CLEANING | RESTORATION | VALUATION

Our Services Include: Commercial and Residential Property Wills and Probate Litigation and Personal Injury Criminal and Family Law Agricultural, Business and Commercial Employment Shepton Mallet: 57 High Street, Shepton Mallet, Somerset, BA4 5AQ. Tel: 01749 330330

Glastonbury: 11 Chilkwell Street, Glastonbury, Somerset, BA6 8DL. Tel: 01458 832510

As a firm we continue our support of the Royal Bath and West Show and the Vintage Vehicle section in particular.

During the course of this year we have refurbished the exterior of the Chief Steward’s exhibition unit and commentary box and our photograph this month shows the Royal Bath and West of England Society’s secretary Paul Hooper (left) and BGW director Robin Weelen (right) with Tony Sugg (seated) of Wyvern, Shepton Mallet, who carried out the work, admiring the signwriting on the vehicle which was undertaken by HW Signs of Shepton Mallet. We are grateful to Mr Sugg and HW Signs for their efforts.

Hopefully, the unit will continue to be in use at the Royal Bath and West Show and other events at the showground for many years to come, just as we anticipate that our relationship with the show will also continue.

We look forward to seeing as many friends, old and new, at the show as possible, perhaps to enjoy a cup of coffee, a glass of wine or even to have your face painted! We welcome all to come and admire the refurbished unit.

You will find us at the Vintage Vehicle display towards the southern end of the showground.

Castle Cary: Old Bank House, High Street, Castle Cary, Somerset, BA7 7AW. Tel: 01963 350888

Cheddar: Roley House, Church Street, Cheddar, Somerset, BS27 3RA. Tel: 01934 745400

Website: www.bgw-solicitors.co.uk

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All the fun of the mayor

Alison Gibson at Wells Charter Fair

WELLS mayor Alison Gibson couldn’t resist the offer to enjoy one of the rides on offer when she opened the city’s 816th Charter Fair.

This year’s fair was the 25th to be opened with a civic ceremony as Alison, other councillors and guests took part in a procession around the amusements. The fair was blessed by the Rev. Roger Redding, chaplain to the Showmen’s Guild of Great Britain.

The ceremony was the idea of Richard Green who approached the city council for support.

Richard said: “The fair is part of the heritage of Wells and another element of its bid for City of Culture status in 2021.”

Marathon man’s record

NEWS

Time to celebrate

DAVID Exell, aged 75, has become the oldest Briton to complete one of the world’s toughest marathon events, the tortuous Marathon des Sables, 250 kilometres over sand dunes in the foothills of Morocco’s Atlas Mountains.

The semi-retired accountant from Wrington, who trained by jogging over the Mendips, has taken the title from explorer, Sir Ranulph Fiennes.

David said: “I must say that I wouldn’t have missed the event for all the tea in China. The mental and physical effort wasn’t really too bad as the organisation was very generous with the cut-off times e.g. 12 hours to do a marathon and 35 hours to do the all-night 86km.

“The warmth, unselfishness and camaraderie of the 1100 other runners (especially 450 Brits) was exceptional and so rewarding for me. My tent-mates were gunning for me from the start to be the oldest Brit ever to finish the race.

“And when I wasn’t in the competition they did absolutely everything for me. In a whole week I didn’t put my socks and shoes on or ever take them off and other Brits used to cheer me home, as I was always near the end of the line of finishers and they had probably been resting for ages.

“They all knew who I was as I was so old compared to them. A 16-year-old schoolboy said that I inspired him because I was the age of his grandparents and truly that was the attitude of many of the runners because they realised that that is what they can do when they are 75.”

David’s had a lifetime of challenges, trekking in the Himalayas and Pyrenees, taking part in the Everest marathon and in 1987 he ran ten marathons worldwide for charity. But he said preparations this time were like starting from scratch, with short half-hour jogs last August.

He’s raising money for Mountain Rescue and the Bristol Area Stroke Foundation.

Team photo

Guests at the civic opening ceremony

Details: https://www.justgiving.com/companyteams/davidjexell MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2017 • PAGE 5

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Artists are the bee’s knees . . .

By Mark Adler

LYDIA Needle gets straight to the point: there are more than 250 different bees in Britain which include 24 species of bumblebees, 225 plus solitary bees and just one honeybee … and many are in decline or endangered.

Lydia at home in Kingsdon

A companion sculpture by Cranmore-based artist Fiona Campbell, who says the topic is “close to my heart”

Now the artist, who specialises in wool and needlefelt – Needle really is her name – is hoping to do something to raise awareness of the threat the creatures are facing. Lydia, who lives in Kingsdon, near Somerton, has chosen 50 of the bees and is producing one tiny, life-size bee piece in wool for each example.

But Lydia is not alone – 50 other artists from Somerset and the rest of the UK have been inspired to create companion pieces

each in response to the habitat, linked wildlife, ecology, flight, sound, predators, or whatever they choose of one specific UK bee.

Their work will go on show at the community-run ACEarts Centre in Somerton’s Old Town Hall in July as part of what Lydia describes as the “interconnectedness of all things”.

Lydia said: “The artists have really taken the project to their hearts and are

Wells go towards the costs of maintaining the chapel and the grounds, now a haven for wildlife.

Now the volunteers are appealing for more support in their efforts to enhance the grounds, improve the exhibition explaining the history of the site and to carry out more research into the people buried there.

The cemetery contains the graves of almost 3,000 patients – and some of the staff – who lived and worked at the Victorian psychiatric hospital at Horrington, seen as pioneering in its approach to the treatment of patients with mental illnesses and mental disabilities.

Opened in 1848 as the Somerset and Bath Asylum, the hospital took patients from across the old county of Somerset until its closure in 1991.The cemetery opened in 1874 and, after several

extensions, closed in 1963.

The Somerset Trust for Nature Conservation later took on the care of the cemetery but its plans for a nature reserve and environmental study centre for local schools did not materialise. In 1997 the gates were locked and in 2000 the NHS tried to sell the cemetery for development until protestors forced a change of mind.

The Friends of Mendip Hospital Cemetery were then formed to preserve the site as a public amenity and to help people understand more about the role of the hospital. They enjoy a 999-year lease on the land from Mendip District Council.

Tucked away in what is now a quiet residential area – the hospital owned extensive farmland around the site – the cemetery is open to visitors on most Sundays and some Saturdays until

The exhibition runs from July 1st to July 22nd at the ACEarts Centre in Somerton. For details about the

. . . but honey is a money-spinner for cemetery saviours BEES are doing their bit to help a group of volunteers who care for one of the most unusual closed cemeteries in Somerset.

Proceeds from sales of honey from the hives at Mendip Hospital Cemetery in

The chapel sits in an oasis of wildlife

Bees swa

Decem attracts Retir been re cemete ways w do to h “Our of a vis

The Friends would welcome more offers of support and funding. For details, visit: www/mendiphospitalcemetery

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Some of the bees created in wool by Lydia

producing some fantastic pieces – they are really fighting for their bees.”

Lydia came up with the idea after reading a book about the plight of the bee: “You hear some awful things about what is happening to our environment but not always what is happening on the tiny scale which affects the ecology from the bottom up.”

Her plans for the exhibition also include displays and demonstrations to emphasise the importance of bees in the environment. One of the artists has an orchard at her home and was so inspired by the project that she has introduced a particular bee there to great success.

Plans for a comprehensive book about the project have been scaled back due to lack of funds, but one will be produced, added Lydia. In the long-term, however, she hopes to repeat the project with 50 different bees.

about the project, visit: www.lydianeedle.com

Bees swarming on one of the trees in the cemetery grounds

December. There are now many wildflowers and a thriving pond attracts a range of wildlife.

Retired teacher Peter Jaggard, one of the volunteers and who has been researching the backgrounds of the people buried in the cemetery, said: “The sales of honey from the hives are one of the ways we try to raise money, but there’s only so much the bees can do to help.

“Our aim is to tidy up the interior of the chapel and make it more of a visitor centre with better interpretation facilities.”

ospitalcemetery.org.uk or find them on Facebook.

ENVIRONMENT

Young rangers on patrol

THE Mendip Hills AONB unit are looking for 15 adventurous young people who love the outdoors and who want to be part of a special group of Young Rangers.

They will get a taste for what it’s like to look after one of Britain’s most special places, designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

The youngsters will gain qualifications such as first aid, navigation and the John Muir Conservation Award, along with learning about the special qualities of the Mendip Hills, taking part in outdoor adventure activities and gaining life skills.

Sammy Fraser, volunteer co-ordinator officer said: “The Young Ranger scheme is a fantastic opportunity for young people interested in the outdoors and conservation, gaining skills and new experiences and increasing appreciation for Mendip.

“The scheme works with a range of partners such as the Somerset and Avon Wildlife Trusts and Somerset Earth Science Centre offering a diverse and unique experience.”

The young rangers are aged 12-13 and sign up for two years to take part in a monthly activity. The Mendip Hills AONB Partnership subsidises the scheme so that places are offered at only £100 per ranger for the two-year programme. This covers all activities, equipment and uniform.

The scheme has been running since 2005 to provide young people in the Mendip area with the core skills of being a ranger or working in conservation in the future. The Mendip Hills AONB unit are promoting the scheme through local schools who have pupils aged 12-13 but also encourages direct applicants.

Details: Complete the application form available at www.mendiphillsaonb.org.uk/young-rangers/ by midnight Monday June 12th or contact Sammy Fraser on Sammy@mendiphills.aonb.org.uk or 01761 462338.

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Progress on Mendips’ ponds

WORK on restoring some of Mendip’s historic ponds is progressing well. After clearing out years of mud and debris, the walls are being rebuilt and repointed. The Mendip Ponds Project is working on 14 ponds like this one at Westbury.

The Reptile and Amphibian Group for Somerset, which is behind the project with the Mendip AONB unit and Somerset Wildlife Trust, hopes it will encourage the return of great crested newts. Trevor Beebee from the project will give a progress report at a meeting of the Mendip Society at Wells and Mendip Museum, May 31st, 2.30pm.

Details: Richard 01275 472797 www.themendipsociety.org.uk

Elaine’s walk for wildlife

Let’s get growing

James prepares to cut the ribbon to open the allotment

YOUNGSTERS at Croscombe Church of England Primary School have their own allotment thanks to the fundraising efforts of staff and parents.

The fruit and vegetables they will help to grow will be used at lunchtimes and any surplus sold to parents.

The terraced allotment was created on spare land behind the village hall and next to the school playing field.

James Cross, the head gardener at the Bishop’s Palace in Wells, was the guest of honour at the opening.

Elaine in her familiar Jockey Club uniform at Wincanton

A PASSION for wildlife inspired Elaine Spencer-White to don her walking boots to tackle the Cotswold Way for charity.

Elaine, who used to live in Wells, is a familiar face on race days at Wincanton Racecourse where she welcomes guests to the Winning Connections suite.

This was her third long distance walk to raise money for the Countryside Restoration Trust. Her first was along the Thames Path (150 miles from Oxford to Tower Bridge), then last year, 78 cross-country miles along the Wessex Ridgeway from Ashmore on the Dorset/Wiltshire border to Lyme Regis.

Despite a cold and sometimes strong east headwind, Elaine completed her walk on time, arriving at Bath Abbey on schedule eight days later. ● Elaine, who now lives at Marnhull, is still accepting donations on behalf of the Countryside Restoration Trust’s Dorset Farm Appeal, set up to achieve artist Gordon Beningfield’s vision of creating a wildlife-friendly farm in the county.

For details, visit: www.countrysiderestorationtrust.com

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ENVIRONMENT

Thumbs up to the new growing area

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Death of former land girl Dolly Vowles APRIL 18th saw the passing of a lovely lady in North Somerset, the day after her 94th birthday. Dolly Vowles was a land girl in the Second World War, a job she loved.

It was only about two years ago that Dolly agreed for me to write about her experiences, but she declared that I must not print it until With MARY she had “gone on”. So the time has come and JAMES MBE I have pleasure in writing it Dolly Allway was born near Eastville, Bristol. Her parents ran a general store and she had four brothers to cope with. After leaving Greenbank School, Dolly worked at Frys chocolate factory in Keynsham and she cycled every day.

In the beginning it was a job in the box factory, then it was as a messenger when she collected quite a lot of chocolate on her rounds, but she got sick of it! Then it was on to dispatch and then to the cocoa department. In her spare time she loved to go out into the surrounding countryside.

At the outbreak of war, Dolly and her friends received calling up papers. She really wanted to do something useful. First she thought of the navy but then, with her friend Trixie, volunteered for the land army. When she was accepted her father thought she would find it too hard. But Dolly declared: “It was the best thing I ever did.”

The girls were sent to Cranmore for a month’s training, how to milk a cow by hand and how to harness a horse. Dolly remembered very well one of her first jobs on a farm when she

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was sent with a workman to fetch brewer’s grains with a horse and cart to Shepton Mallet.

Then she was told to do the journey on her own.

“Don’t worry the horse is quiet,” said the boss!

When she arrived at the depot she had great difficulty backing the horse, so she asked a man if he would back the horse if she held his bike!

On the way back there was a hold-up, she was beckoned on, but after a few yards the horse stopped to poo, but an army convoy coming behind started sounding horns and men were leaning out of the lorries shouting!

The girls were not allowed to live on farm so they lived in a hostel, the Grange at Flax Bourton. On one of her first days milking, the boss would insist on calling her Miss Allday. She was sent to Home Farm, Barrow Gurney from July 1942 to spring 1943. Then she moved to Freemans Farm, Barrow Gurney where she became friendly with the Vowles family.

It was here Dolly was offered a permanent job but the Land Army would not allow it, so it was back to working for several other farmers and relief milking as far away as Bath and Saltford.

Back at the hostel the girls were finding the jobs and restrictions quite difficult. One night they were locked out but it was Dolly who knew a way in and found a ladder. Dolly did a lot of milking and again was offered a job at Freemans Farm. This time she accepted but she had to leave the Land Army and send the uniform back.

At Freemans there was more milking by hand at first, then on to machine. Tractor driving was enjoyable and she loved lambing.

“But,” she said, “I really preferred sheep.”

Dolly became very friendly with the youngest Vowles’ son, Mervyn, whom she married in 1953. After a few years they finally settled at Hill Farm, Barrow Gurney which was a in a bad state of repair, dreadful colours, no water, no toilet and no bathroom, but one was promised.

It took a long while but they gradually got the house straight. At Hill Farm they were milking 30 Shorthorns but changed to beef, sheep (Kerry Hill) and arable. Dolly adapted well to farm life, becoming an excellent cook, a great gardener and flower arranger, as well as being a bell ringer and in later years a bowls player.

A remarkable lady.

Mervyn and Dolly retired from Hill Farm in 1997 to live in Nailsea.

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FARMING

Young farmers’ show

WEDMORE YFC held its 83rd annual livestock show at the George Hotel in the village. The main prize winners were: The E R Nicholl’s Cup for most helpful member Sam Tincknell; The Doris Burrough’s Cup for most enthusiastic senior Fay Nicholls; The Doris Burrough’s Cup for most enthusiastic junior Lottie Hill; Handicraft Cup (Junior) Lottie Hill; Handicraft Cup (Senior) Fay Nicholls; Best All-Round Member (Junior) Lottie Hill; Best All-Round Member (Senior) Ian Winter; Overall – Best All-Round Member 2017 Lottie Hill.

Judging in progress

Elizabeth Bell with Suzy

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ROYAL BATH & WEST SHOW 2017

Find us at the Royal Bath and West Show Stand 430 in the Food and Drink marquee

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Winscombe May Fair

Maypole dancers from Winscombe Primary School

Shipham May Fair

The Shipham Guides Maypole dancing troupe

Fun on the waltzer

Winscombe Ringers

First Shipham Guides strawberry stall with Nell, Abigail and Edith

Winscombe Horticultural Society

The crowning of the village May Queen Matilda (centre) and Princesses Megan and Ella

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EVENTS

Film festival was fuzz-tastic!

TWO sell-out screenings of Hot Fuzz and a variety of other films and events ensured the second Wells Festival of Film was a great success, say organisers.

Organised by the team at Wells Film Centre, the festival opened with a live broadcast from Stratford-upon-Avon of Julius Caesar by the Royal Shakespeare Company.

Around 400 people packed the lawn of the Bishop’s Palace for two screenings of Hot Fuzz, with many entering into the spirit of the evenings by wearing fancy dress.

Games and competitions at Sandford Village Fete greeted Hot Fuzz fans arriving at the Bishop’s Palace as did an “escaped” swan

An arresting sight: town crier Len Sweales

The Mayor of Wells, Alison Gibson, cuts the ribbon to open the festival The Black Cloaked Figure

A group of Hot Fuzz fans – paramedics in real life – arrive as forensic scientists Film fans get settled for an evening of fun

MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2017 • PAGE 15

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Let them eat steak!

I AM sure there will be at least one day in June when you can eat outside. Perhaps on Father’s Day, Sunday, June 18th?

And what could be better than a great steak? I am particular about my steak, and rarely eat it, so I want it to be fantastic.

And now that there are people on With JUNE Mendip making mozzarella you don’t MACFARLANE have to go far for a starter of Caprese salad with the tastiest tomatoes. A dessert made with lovely local strawberries will round off the perfect celebration meal.

CAPRESE SALAD

A salad from Capri, but it has come to mean the perfect summer starter: mozzarella, tomatoes, basil, olive oil, seasoned, that’s it. Don’t mess with it, just use the best ingredients you can find.

METHOD Take everything out of the fridge half an hour in advance. When ready, chop the tomato into big bits and arrange on a plate.

Tear the mozzarella into INGREDIENTS pieces and arrange on top. (per person) Drizzle generously with good 1 large mozzarella ball olive oil, throw over some 1 beefsteak tomato crunchy salt and freshly several basil leaves ground pepper, tear up the olive oil basil leaves and scatter over. sea salt & black pepper Serve immediately.

A GREAT STEAK

The first thing you need is a great piece of meat. Ask the butcher for a single rib, on the bone, chined (thank you Steve at Jon Thorner’s for preparing mine). It should be at least 4cm thick. It will probably serve two people.

METHOD Take the meat out of the fridge an hour before you start. Heat a heavy pan until very hot. Season the meat on both sides. Add a

PAGE 16 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2017

A great steak

ICED STRAWBERRY SOUFFLÉ (for up to four) 300g strawberries 3 large egg whites 100g caster sugar 300ml double cream

INGREDIENTS

This sounds exotic, but in fact it is very well behaved with no cooking involved.

METHOD Keep a few strawberries back for decoration and purée the rest until smooth.

In an electric mixer whisk the egg whites and sugar to firm peaks.

Separately, whip the cream to soft peaks. Fold the meringue, cream and purée together gently.

Divide between dishes and freeze for at least two hours. Bring to room temperature for three mins before serving with reserved strawberries.

1 rib of sirloin, about 500g salt & black pepper olive oil butter

INGREDIENTS

splash of oil to the pan. When foaming put in the steak and cook for six minutes without touching. Turn the steak. Add a spoonful of butter and baste as the meat cooks for another fiveseven minutes, or more, depending on how you like your steak.

Stand it on its side to cook the fat. Remove from the pan and rest for 10 minutes before serving.

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FOOD & DRINK

A round-up of events from Thatchers Cider in Sandford

Happy trees make great cider

WE’VE been out planting some beautiful new trees this Spring in and around Sandford and Winscombe.

This year we’ve planted 25,000 young trees, including Dabinett, which is a vintage bittersweet apple that provides richness and body to our ciders; and Jonagold, a crisp eating apple that provides a beautiful sweet juice.

As well as our own orchards, we have an extended family of specialist growers throughout the region who provide us with great quality apples, all making a valuable contribution and helping us deliver sufficient quantities of fruit into our mill at harvest time to meet the growing demand for our ciders.

Over half of all the apples grown in this country are used to make cider. But with apple trees taking six or seven years to start cropping fully, and orchards lasting around 40 years, planting orchards is a long-term commitment for the future.

Celebrating Somerset

Somerset Day has been a fantastic event again this year. We enjoyed a cider and cheese tasting at The Railway Inn, and our visitors got into the spirit joining in with the Mendip Morrismen’s dancing.

Cheers from us all at Myrtle Farm

A classic vintage

Fresh off the bottling line is our 2016 Vintage Cider. Using the finest bittersweet apples from the 2016 harvest, this is a classic cider that is deep in flavour yet light in colour. Rich and medium dry, this 7.4% cider is rounded off with a crisp sparkle. Look out for the new label too.

Glastonbury Festival winner

We’re delighted to announce that the winner of our Mendip Times Glastonbury Festival competition is Jane Pruden. Her winning entry really got the judges enthused about our wonderful county: Cider making, tor climbing, cheese making, carnival illuminating, cave exploring, horseback riding, fossil hunting, wave surfing, sandcastle building, castle visiting, poem writing, nature spotting, reservoir sailing, bird watching, legend making, swan bellringing, festival loving. Somerset: pride inspiring.

www.thatcherscider.co.uk • Don’t forget you can also follow us on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook Thatchers Cider, Myrtle Farm, Sandford, Somerset, BS25 5RA

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Summer wine tasting

SUMMER WINE TASTING Weds, June 14th at the Crown at Wells!

Tickets available in shop or online.

J U N E D AT E S We l l s E ac h We d 9 am – 2 . 3O p m

We design, deliver and fit covered outdoor living areas To include • BBQ Islands • Pizza Ovens • Outdoor fireplaces/Fire pits • Patio Heaters Email us for a free site visit and quotation now: info@outdoorkitchenssouthwest.com

A l l o t h e r ma r k e t s 9 a m - 1 p m un l e s s o t h e r w i s e m a r ke d *

SAT 3rd Axbridge & Midsomer Norton SUN 4th SFM @ Frome Independent SAT 10th Frome (C&G Market Hall) and Keynsham SAT 17th Crewkerne SAT 24th Glastonbury* (9am-2pm) FRI 30th Burnham-on-Sea

WINE merchant Andrew Kinnersley is planning a few surprises for his summer tasting evening in Wells in June.

The owner of The Grape and The Good, in Priory Road in the city, has sourced a number of new wines – including a rosé from Aldwick Court Vineyard – for the event on Wednesday, June 14th at the Crown at Wells.

Last year’s summer tasting was a big success and Andrew said: “Those who came to the summer tasting last June or the Christmas tasting will be familiar with the format – simple and informal with four tables to visit and at least 40 wines to taste at your leisure. Some of my suppliers will be on hand to answer any questions and help you find your perfect wine (or wines). The Crown will be providing some lovely local cheese to accompany the wines and there will be a 10% saving on the night for any wines ordered.”

Meanwhile, Andrew has launched a new offer for customers to the Grape and The Good – what he calls his Super Six and Super Duper 12 collections: six wines at a great price. He said: “These might be new wines, old favourites or just bottles perfect for the time of year. There will always be a healthy saving on the 'Super 6' and the 'Duper' part of the 'Super Duper 12'? You get to choose a free 13th bottle!”

Tickets for the wine tasting cost £15 and are available at the shop or online: www.thegrapeandthegood.com – the evening begins at 6.30pm.

Country shopping at its best North Widcombe, West Harptree, Bristol BS40 6HW Opening times: Farm shop: Monday to Friday 9am - 5.30pm Saturday 8.30am - 5.30pm • Sunday 10am - 5pm Tea Room: Monday to Sunday 9.30am - 5.30pm

Wheelchair access, children welcome, free parking, coaches by appointment

TEA ROOMS

Hot & cold meals Delicious cream teas Full English breakfasts Function room available for hire

Tasty Cheddar strawberries and our own cream!

Enjoy a good Sunday roast

Emma Bridgewater China & other gifts Geoff’s fresh fish every Friday

Farm Shop: 01761 220067 • Tea Rooms: 01761 220172

PAGE 18 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2017

COME AND ENJOY OUR FRESH BARBEQUE MEATS

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A L D W I C K V I N E YA R D

FOOD & DRINK

April’s frost shows its teeth

YET another sunny day’s work in the vineyard was drawing to a close in April when the BBC Radio 4 programme “Poetry Please” came on my radio. How uncanny that someone should request Robert Frost’s “Two Tramps in Mud Time”.

With Winter pruning is mud-time at ELIZABETH Aldwick, often in quagmire proportions.

LAVER 2017 ushered in an unusually dry spring, with bud-burst on the vines arriving two weeks early.

Diligently tying in canes, I was half-distracted by the third stanza in which Frost acutely depicts the vagaries of April weather.

When the sun is out, it does seem like the middle of May. Then: “A wind comes off a frozen peak, and you’re two months back in the middle of March.”

The late spring frosts of April 25th-27th, wellreported in the media, were indeed the advection sort; wind-driven from the arctic North-East. Aldwick endured one night of 0º, nothing like the -6º reported in the South East, thankfully due to Somerset’s westerly longitude. The UK Interactive Late-Frost Date Map highlights our favourable location.

Moreover, the West Country did not experience the soar in spring temperatures causing vines in the east to shoot. On the Eichhorn-Lorenz scale of phenological development, our grape varieties averaged the EL7 stage at best – one leaf unfurled.

During those perilous, nerve-wracking three days, the press rang seeking photo opportunities. Was Aldwick planning to set out hundreds of “bougies” – French for candles?

Hilarious! As if shoestring budgets permit such expense in terms of materials and labour.

Our farm manager Tim Mewton ensured that rudimentary anti-frost measures were implemented: inter-row grass areas closely mown and under-vine strips weed free. Both viticultural strategies promote soil warming during the day and facilitate cold air drainage.

On May Bank Holiday Monday, I managed to evacuate the vineyard moments before a massive hailstorm. The posttempest recce, undertaken with heavy heart, proved reassuring.

A fortnight later, my assistant Jack Inman accompanied me on a scouting tour of Woodlands to reassess the bite of Frost’s “crystal teeth”. Jack took this wonderfully uplifting photograph of our Solaris. That’s Tim in his little red tractor, running our under-vine cultivator to suppress early weed growth.

Elizabeth Laver is the Vineyard Manager at Aldwick Court Farm & Vineyard. To learn more about Aldwick wine and vineyard tours visit www.aldwickcourtfarm.co.uk or call 01934 864404.

MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2017 • PAGE 19

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Bread & Beyond TEA ROOMS AND PROVISIONS

Warming lunches • Organic free trade coffee Cream Teas • Afternoon Tea (booking only) Home-made tarts, pies, cakes and bread • Local milk, cheeses and eggs Lovely things for sale from Michel Design Works, Burleigh and Brixton Pottery, Crisp and Dene kitchen textiles.

Products from Mendip Lavender and Lyonsleaf Skincare, Priddy.

Cyclists, walkers and dogs very welcome Open: Monday to Friday: 7am - 4.30pm Saturday: 7.30am - 3pm

Bread & Beyond

High Street, Chewton Mendip, BA3 4LJ

01761 240820 email: breadandbeyond@outlook.com SPEND £10 IN SHOP FOR A FREE CUP OF TEA OR COFFEE

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GARDEN FOOD

Taste of the Orient

ALLIUM chinense, also known as rakkyo, is a great little perennial to add to the garden. A very commonly planted vegetable in China, Japan and Korea, rakkyo is used not only for its chive-like leaves, but also its flowers, flowering stems and bulbs, which get to a With JAKE respectable size (4-5cm) after 2-3 years.

WHITSON It is easily grown, preferring a sunny spot and well-drained soil, and spreads and grows just like chives – the clump can be divided every few years, in the spring. Bees also love the flowers!

The bulbs are really more like a shallot than garlic – my plants aren't old enough to have harvested my own, but I've had them pickled in Japan, almost always as a garnish on a dish of Japanese curry rice.

This is a slightly peculiar, but very popular Japanicised Indian curry, tasting not unlike a chip shop curry sauce with rice. They have a shallot texture with a garlic/chive flavour.

For now, it's the above ground parts that I use.

The leaves are somewhere between chives and spring onion, but with a stronger, more garlicky flavour than either, and are delicious used in any way either of them would be – chopped finely and added to mashed potato, or miso soup, or maybe in a little green herb sauce with some sorrel, mustard, cider vinegar and oil, to go with some grilled lamb.

The light purple flowers are also delicious, and get scattered liberally on top of salads throughout the summer.

Jacob is a former chef turned food writer, smallholder and mycologist. He divides his time between the Mendips and his nine-acre forest garden project in Pembrokeshire. Details: www.chaosfungorum.co.uk

FOOD & DRINK

WILD FOOD

Crow garlic

I HAD been walking past this patch of green stalks at about the same time in late spring for a year or so. Initially I assumed it to be nothing more than wild chives but as the leaves developed and grew I began to take a closer interest as I could see that there were some differences.

With ADRIAN So I went back and had a closer look and BOOTS a taste for research purposes of course.

Without the flowers to help easy identification, I had to consider its location within its habitat and look closely at the stalk/leaf shape and finally I tried a few tips of the stalks which were a little tough but gave a good oniony flavour.

Finally I dug up some of the bulbs (with the land owner’s permission of course) to reveal the entire picture. We had crow garlic!

Why is it called crow garlic? The common name is probably a derogatory term used by country folk (e.g. only fit for carrion crows) but it’s actually very good to eat. I suspect this originated from the fact that crow garlic being a pasture loving plant was often consumed by cows, which invariably gave milk with a distinct onion/garlic flavour.

This was not a good thing in the eyes of the farmer or his wife for that matter as not only did it taste odd but would have been impossible to sell on and let’s face it, who wants garlic flavoured milk on their corn flakes in the morning?

It therefore became something to be avoided/dealt with if possible. Personally I think there should be a market for crow garlic milk for culinary uses and just think how healthy the cows would be! Just don’t get so close you can smell their breath...

Crow garlic (Allium Vineale) has narrow tubular stalk-like leaves 20 to 50cm high, with dense spherical heads of greenish or purplish flowers interspersed with small bulbs. It is a plant of dry grassland and fields and can be found from April to June.

The bulbs are the best part of the plant to eat, reminiscent of the small silver onions (without the vinegar) that only seem to be purchased at Christmas time. Funny how they never seem to be used up and no-one wants throw them away as it would be a “waste” so the jar just sits in the fridge forever.

I would definitely not go down the pickling route unless you are desperate to preserve them, so I would simply use them fresh in a suitable dish. Anyone for crow garlic soft cheese perhaps?

Adrian Boots is a Landscape Ecologist, Wild Food Forager and Adventure Activity provider. You can visit his website: www.gowildactivities.co.uk to learn more about wild food foraging and activities you can do with him on the Mendip Hills.

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Festival’s 15th year

WE ARE NOW 4* RATED ★★★★

Ideal location, close to the Bath & West Showground, and other local attractions

Call in for a drink or a meal on the way home.

Bed & Breakfast available too in our stylish and elegant en-suite rooms:2 doubles ‘Midford’ & ‘Shillingsworth’ 5 rooms in the attached Cider House – 3 twin and 2 doubles 2 new self-contained 1 bed cottages ‘Baily Gate’ & ‘Creek Moor’ with a stylish kitchen/diner/lounge area with a bathroom/bedroom upstairs.

PLEASE CALL TO BOOK

THE everpopular Claverham Beer Festival, organised by Yeo Valley Lions Club, will be held from Friday June 30th to Sunday July 2nd July at Claverham Village Hall. This will be the 15th year of this annual event, the proceeds of which are used to support local voluntary organisations and charities as well as other Lions projects.

Tickets are £8, which includes a souvenir glass and your first pint, and are now on sale for the Friday and Saturday evening sessions, which commence at 7.30pm, but entry to the Saturday and Sunday lunchtime sessions, which commence at 12.30pm, is free.

As usual there will be entertainment at each session as well as the choice of 32 beers and eight ciders (while stocks last).

A barbeque, using local products, will also be available.

Tickets are available from either AB’s Motorcare or Yatton Newsmarket in Yatton, from Bishops Stores in Cleeve, Hodder’s Family Butchers in Congresbury or from the Village Hall in Claverham.

Mendip Times ONLINE natterjack

Details: www.claverham-beer-festival.btck.co.uk

Free access to all of our recent magazines from our website Free links to all of our advertisers’ websites Free links from our features and editorial pages More information – more enjoyment No annoying pop-ups – Mendip Times pure and simple A new service for readers and advertisers

www.mendiptimes.co.uk PAGE 22 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2017

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FOOD & DRINK

E OF FEATHER M U S PL

DUCK RACE SATURDAY 8th JULY

Starting at 5pm. Great family fun evening with a local band playing, best dressed duck competition, duck racing, BBQ, pig roast, face painting, ice cream stall, 3 bars open. Come and get your ducks from the Plume, decorate at home or at the Plume from 5pm and enter them before 6pm.

Rickford, Somerset BS40 7AK

01761 462682

Come in and enjoy Blagdon’s traditional little country pub. enjoy Lunch or Dinner with us. note 80% menu is gluten-free.

Booking highly recommended. in season: Trout • Pheasant • Venison gOOD fOOD, gOOD frienDS, gOOD TiMeS

www.queenadelaideblagdon.co.uk • 01761 463926

Visit www.theplumeoffeathers.com

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New college principal

EMMA Reynolds has been appointed principal of Frome College with effect from September 2017. She is currently head of The Bulmershe School in Wokingham, Berkshire.

She takes over from Gavin Ball who has moved to the Wessex Learning Trust in Cheddar.

Exclusive Children’s Day Nursery

Award winning Children’s Day Nursery

Wells Road Latcham Wedmore BS28 4SA

The Royal Bath & West Showground Shepton Mallet BA4 6QL

Baby room - Nursery - Pre-school - Forest School

01934 713527

www.littleowlschildcare.com

Yoga - French Music & Dance Cookery Gardening

Ofsted - Staff support children's emotional wellbeing extremely well and have a very good knowledge of their individual needs, positively supporting children's learning with effective modelling and questioning

PAGE 24 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2017

Baby room - Nursery - Pre-school - Forest School

01749 346808

www.nextstepschildcare.com

Yoga • French Music & Dance Cookery Gardening

Ofsted inspection rated our "Contribution of the Early Years Provision to the well-being of the children" as Outstanding

Nothing is hard when you have the right support

IN today’s world of constant testing and assessment All Hallows’ is very proud of the achievements of their Year 8 leavers, as they are non-selective on entry.

Each year, approximately 60% of children receive awards to senior schools – academic, sport, music, drama and allrounder awards. All Hallows has an educational psychologist as its head, which drives the child-centred approach to learning and subsequent high results.

This year, their pupils have been awarded 40 scholarships to senior schools.

Children at All Hallows not only achieve academic success but also do very well in terms of sport nationally within the independent schools sector thanks to a large, specialist team of coaches and a wide range of opportunities.

Each child gets to try their hand at a wide range of sports with on-site facilities including swimming pool and an LTA accredited tennis academy. There is an extensive outdoor education programme on offer and pupils benefit immensely from the on-site nine-acre forest school.

Over the last three years All Hallows’ pupils have won over 50 sports scholarships, equally split between boys and girls.

Should you wish to visit All Hallows’ and see for yourself, please call 01749 881600 to arrange a visit.

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Part-time leisure courses in the Somer Valley BATH College is offering an exciting new range of part-time leisure courses at their Somer Valley Campus in Radstock, starting in September.

It’s also opening a state-of-the-art construction skills centre, catering for students who want to learn a trade and progress into industry.

As a result, they are able to offer learners a wider range of courses, from property maintenance to landscaping and animal care.

Their gardening and landscaping courses are well-established and taught by professional experts on their countryside campus.

Landscape gardener James Billinghurst has over 20 years’ experience in industry and will be leading their Introduction to Garden

Construction course.

On this fun and practical course, you’ll learn how to lay paving, a raised border and simple timber structures.

If you’ve got a head for heights, try their tree climbing for adults course. This course, at the beautiful Ammerdown Estate, will teach you knot tying, rope throwing and how to ascend and descend safely.

Courses include a beginner’s guide to growing flowers, container growing, grow your own food, build your own planter and choosing plants.

They also have a wealth of courses for people interested in home decoration, and DIY. Enrol on one of their property maintenance courses to learn the basics of plumbing, plastering, electrics and wallpaper hanging.

At their Somer Valley Campus, animal care students gain experience looking after over 200 animals. They have rabbits, chickens, reptiles, fish and rodents, as well as their much-love pygmy goats.

EDUCATION

If you’re interested in caring for animals, sign up for an introduction to animal biology, wildlife first aid, dog behaviour or first aid for small pets.

For families, they are holding a caring for small pets workshop, offering the opportunity for younger children to meet their animals and find out how to handle them.

Courses also run at their popular City Centre Campus right in the heart of Bath.

You can study anything from art and design, floristry and cookery, to massage therapy, foreign languages and web development.

They have the space and the resources to support you if you’d like to learn stone carving, jewellery, photography or glass techniques.

For more information visit www.bathcollege.ac.uk or call their Student Advice Centre on 01225 312191.

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A pig called Freda

A GLOUCESTERSHIRE Old Spot pig took home the bacon for its owners from Clevedon after being crowned the best animal exhibit at the North Somerset Show.

In a somewhat unusual contest, Freda was pitted against a shire horse and a British Blue cow in the judging after the grand parade. The best sheep exhibit did not take part.

An estimated 20,000 people flocked to the showground at Wraxall for the 158th show but a thunderstorm after the main parade forced many to head for home early, causing problems for the traffic stewards.

The show took to social media to apologise for the delays caused by “a huge amount of people” leaving at the same time and to ask drivers to be patient.

Just champion – the grand parade in the main arena

Kelly Salter on Colloe Grove Ivy, from the Gloucestershire-based Colloe Grove Shire Stud. The horse was named supreme champion in hand and supreme ridden champion. Kelly was helped on the day by Jason Holder PAGE 26 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2017

Sir David Wills was asked to make a tricky choice of best animal on show. He chose Freda, shown by Max Manners of Clevedon Riding Centre

The team from Read Agri, of Wanstrow, took first prize in the agricultural trade stand awards

Heavy horses were a big attraction

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Lisa Williams from Evercreech with son Lucas and lamb Cassie

Stuart Redmond, of the Avon Vale Hunt, clears a 1.70 metre fence to claim the inter-hunt Chase Me Charlie event in the main arena.

The other finalists were fellow AVH member Josh Coles and Sally Cole, from the Mendip Farmers’ Hunt

Eric, Brendan and Lily Tucker, from Winscombe with Eric’s 1950 Fergie. It’s been in the family since 1963

THE NORTH SOMERSET SHOW 2017

Diesel and dust: tractor pulling underway

Felton Eccles were in winning form

Harry Stamp, from Mark, with one of the family’s prizewinning Dorset Down flock

MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2017 • PAGE 27

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INTERNET

Passwords part 2

IT’S sometimes hard to make clear what you mean, so in last month’s article, I didn’t emphasise properly the need for a long password. Length and variety are the key – two parts of a password make it harder to hack than one long one.

First, a recap – each password should be unique – especially for any security situation, such as email, shopping, banking etc.

Each password should incorporate letters, numbers and upper and lowercase. Most passwords have to be between 8 and 16 characters, so aim for 16. Many allow characters such as ! or ♯.

But usually not / as that is part of computer-speak. Every extra character makes the password 80 times harder to crack.

Mix it all up – use mnemonics as part of it – my example last month was Mendip Times Helps Me Remember which would result in MTHMR but you need a lot more than just that – something more like MT!hmReMem22*ber Someone has suggested another option: find a developed photo of an old car, memorise the number plate and store the photo in a safe, secure place. Now add the first bit of the website in front of this number plate and make the first letter a capital, so Amaztrw345b. Write the password in a little book like this: Amazon+1. The problem with this is that once the code has been cracked, then they know all your passwords to all your other sites, so for sensitive sites, as always, make it unique.

It’s better to write something down and store it somewhere away from your computer than it is to use the same password over and over. However, keep it securely locked away or encrypted and not with your device. And definitely not stuck to your laptop with post-it notes, as I once saw! This also applies to pin numbers for credit cards, which should not be kept in a wallet or purse.

But you can always write your reminder in code as well.

Writing “Mendip Times Helps Me Remember!22” might be enough to remind you of your actual password. Or “IT for the Terrified is the best place to learn” might tell you that your password is IT4tTitbp2l4me (which is it, so contact us for more details!!)

Check out the options for password help with KeePass www.keepass.info, RoboForm www.roboform.com or LastPass www.lastpass.com And lastly, as mentioned last month, any site that offers you an extra step is a really good idea – to change my password on my email account I have to receive a code on my mobile phone and type that in before I can proceed, which stops anyone getting it.

AppleMac offers a similar service.

Contact us at I.T. for the Terrified: 01934 741751 (usually goes to answer phone) www.itfortheterrified.co.uk itfortheterrified@btconnect.com Now in Cheddar and Watchfield.

Appointments are essential and cost £20 for a two-hour session.

Registered Charity No. 1130308 • Company No. 06779600

CROSSWORD

The Mendip Mindbender

A test of your local knowledge of Mendip and surrounding areas

ACROSS 4 & 17A One of the natural wonders to be found in Cheddar Gorge (6,4) 6 Village five miles east of Somerton (7) 11 Victorian Gothic revival house and grounds near Wraxall (11) 13 See 20 across 14 A 17th century manor house can be found in this village (5) 15 See 1 down 16 Somerset –––– Group, formed to promote interest in these creatures (4) 17 See 4 across 18 Ship––––, village near Bleadon boasting a popular fishing lake (4) 20, 13A & 23A Naval museum attraction found in Yeovilton (5,3,3) 21 & 17D Site of a working quarry near Cheddar (5,5) 22 Village near Wick St. Lawrence (5) 23 See 20 across

DOWN 1 & 15A ‘Fawlty’ comedian born in Weston-superMare (4,6) 2 ––– Hill, site of special scientific interest west of Yeovil (3) 3 ––– Cross Farm, cheesemaking base near Redhill (3) 5 –––––– International Motor Museum in Sparkford (6) 7 Chew Valley village on Cam Brook (7) 8 ––– Wick, hamlet east of Weston-super-Mare (3) 9 & 11D Village north of Blagdon Lake, immortalised in song by 10 down (8,9) 10 Former frontman of The Wurzels (4,6) 11 See 9 down 12 See 15 down 15 Town north west of Wincanton featuring its own fortification (6,4) 16 Village hosting the annual Daffodil Festival (5) 17 See 21 across 19 Crook ––––, hill found at the western end of the Mendips (4)

Answers on page 113

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It’s the people that make the business ONE of my “Linked In” (an on-line network for business folk) attributes is Business Development, so it won’t come as a surprise that after all the years I have spent encouraging, helping to launch and develop young businesses I might feel a bit knowledgeable about this field.

However, I am aware that (although I am a still a bright young thing!?) there are certain areas in which I require the assistance of a Young Person. This means that I need to spend time listening (with a capital “L”) as well as spouting what I like to think of as wisdom – and you have no idea now difficult that is for me!

A recent stay in a lovely little hotel in Cornwall provided a stark reminder of the importance of listening and being ready to take the advice of one’s own team of workers. I shall explain…

This hotel was a small manor house, beautifully decorated and located in a quiet spot with lovely views. The staff were charming, the food was very good and yet during the week we spent there we were, barring one night, the only guests.

At the driveway entrance, there was an ugly hand-written whiteboard, offering a deal on coffee and hot cross buns, which seemed out of keeping with the three-tier cake stand afternoon tea we had seen being served.

Being a person who cannot resist a chat, as well as an inveterate nosey parker, I discovered from the staff that they all had ideas – some of which were very good ideas – about how to develop the business. I also discovered that they were

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deeply frustrated at the slowness of business which they felt could be improved with relatively little effort.

It quickly became apparent that the owners were wealthy enough to treat the hotel as something of a hobby and that they were extremely protective of it. Consequently, staff were discouraged from implementing any changes and the hotel, whilst having some busy periods, continued with a lot of quiet times.

I could feel the frustration of the staff and wondered how long they would stick with it. If I had been in their position, I am sure I would have been looking for a position where my interest and enthusiasm were valued and not blocked.

It isn’t a good thing for we seniors to turn a deaf ear to ideas that come from the next generation. The business world is moving on and, while it may be a difficult pill to swallow, we can really benefit from the knowledge of the younger generation. If we don’t listen to them, there’s a distinct possibility that our businesses will be preserved in aspic, and what will that do to their futures?

Why wouldn’t we want our businesses, whether they be professional, retail, farming or other, to survive and thrive?

If the next generation can help us achieve this, the pension they can pay us all might just keep us in the manner to which we are unaccustomed!

Good luck, and have a great time at the Bath & West.

Jane Bowe Probusiness

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Changing the image of funeral directors

BUSINESS

A NEW-look website and forging stronger links with colleagues in the area are just some of the ways in which Rod Major, who runs Wells Funeral Services, is bringing a fresh approach to the funeral sector.

Rod, a familiar sight on his stall on the Wednesday markets in Wells, said: “The role of modern-day funeral service providers is becoming much more complex and subtle – the days of a local builder or carpenter doubling up as funeral director are becoming rare.”

As well as offering funeral plans, bespoke funeral services and affordable packages, Wells Funeral Services can liaise with will writers and probate experts. Rod can also call upon the services of Nicola Sutton, a fully qualified civil celebrant.

And with a growing interest in green burials, Wells Funeral Services is working with Musgrove Willows at Westonzoyland who offer handwoven coffins made from Somerset withies.

If desired, family members can also participate in weaving a coffin for a loved one.

Rod said: “For some people that can play an important part in the grieving process. I’ve known family members who’ve shared memories of a loved one whilst helping to make the coffin.”

Transport specialists

SHORTLY after the First World War, in 1918, George Willmott took the opportunity peace presented to begin his own haulage business.

Willmotts Transport Limited, which began trading initially in Wells, began delivering goods to the local area, slowly growing to a fleet of around 50 trucks by the 1960s.

With nearly 100 years’ experience Willmotts Transport Limited has become one of the largest privately-owned haulage companies in the area and one of the largest retail support providers in the UK. It became part of the ADMP Group in 2010 when it saw further substantial growth, expanding its services extensively, running over 100 trucks across the UK and Europe, while operating almost 95,000 sq ft of warehousing space and employing nearly 130 people locally.

Willmotts Transport Limited specialises in a number of areas: transport, logistics, retail support, warehousing (BRC & ISO9001 accreditation), pallet network deliveries, training and container services at Southampton Docks.

For further information on what they can provide, call 01749 880333 and one of their team of experts at Waterlip, near Shepton Mallet will be more than happy to assist you or email sales@willmottstransport.com

MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2017 • PAGE 31

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BOHO GLAMPING 5 Luxury Tipi Tents Funky and quirky boho décor Wrought iron double beds Environmentally-friendly site Secret, idyllic retreat

100,000 potential customers within a short distance of your business

CAMELEY LODGE LAUNDRY

Duvets & Bedspreads washed & dried Sheets and Duvet covers washed and pressed Professional efficient service Collection & delivery service in the Chew Valley

Tel 01761 451787

www.cameleylodgelaundry.co.uk

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Alpacas and Cria field East Lydford, Castle Cary, Somerset Call Sarah on 07 519 388 978 theburrows4@btinternet.com

LECATCHER MO

NO MOLE NO FEE Telephone 01275 332966 www.mendipmolecatcher.co.uk

Luxury on the farm

GET away from it all at New Manor Farm, East Lydford, near Castle Cary, who offer boho-style glamping in Swedish-made tipi tents and enjoy seeing Sarah Burrows’ alpacas and their babies. Getting in touch with nature doesn’t necessarily mean you have to rough it as each tipi is decorated in boho style and has a wrought iron double bed, sheepskin rugs, colourful silks, and coming soon eco-friendly loos and showers. Local produce is available from Sarah’s van (including milk and spring water) together with musical instruments, home-made candles, alpaca wool socks, jewellery and spa products.

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BUSINESS

Len Smith Consulting Ltd

Civil Engineering and Building Consultants

Residential

Commercial

Civil Engineering Design, Structural, Building, Residential and Commercial Design Happy to design just a single steel beam, extensions, new builds or residential and commercial development.

Balloon flights over the Chew Valley, Mendips and Somerset Levels

Our services include planning application and building control drawings and calculations, site surveys, project management and site supervision for small extensions through to large building, civil engineering and structural projects.

We enjoy solving problems including listed building and conservation projects.

Tel No: 01278 752872 Mobile: 07714 750709 E-mail: Lensmithconsulting@outlook.com MENDIP TIMES • MAY 2017 • PAGE 33

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MENDIP TIMES Praesidium · Celeritas · Salutum

Sports and Event Medical Cover ● Television and Film Medical Cover ● First Aid and Medical Training ● Medical Logistics ●

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Unit 7 Priory Farm The Waldegrave Estate Chewton Mendip Somerset BA3 4NT

01761 240754 www.mendipmedical.co.uk

100,000 potential customers within a short distance of your business

Do I really need medical cover for my event?

THOUSANDS of people turn out every day to attend events, and event organisers have the vital task to ensure visitors are kept safe and looked after throughout their visit.

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) “strongly recommends that you include the visiting public in your first aid, medical and ambulance needs assessment”. This may be daunting for many organisers, but help is at hand.

Mendip Medical Services is an independent ambulance service located in Chewton Mendip and they regularly provide high quality, professional and affordable event medical cover.

Event organisers can expect to receive comprehensive support including developing emergency and medical plans, liaising with licencing authorities and emergency services, and attending safety meetings where necessary.

Details: www.mendipmedical.co.uk or call 01761 240754.

Camping in style

Located in the Hamlet of Lower Vobster, Glamping on the Hill is ideally placed for those looking to enjoy a stunning location and first class service. For couples, families and parties, unique and authentic, visit our web-site for further details. www.glampingonthehill.com Glamping on the Hill C/O The Vobster Inn Lower Vobster BA3 5RJ

01373 812920

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LOCATED in the hamlet of Lower Vobster, Glamping on the Hill is ideally placed for those looking to explore Bath, Wells, Cheddar and Glastonbury, with a host of pretty small villages and other attractions within a 30 minute drive.

You will be surrounded by nature. Imagine waking up to birdsong and hot croissants off the wood-burning stove, with kingfishers, ducks, moorhens, dragonflies, herons, roe deer, peregrines and otters, who are all frequent visitors.

The area has miles of walks, with lots to get out and discover, as well as enjoying the peace and quiet of their special hidden area of Somerset.

An easy stroll down the hill is the Vobster Inn, which serves freshly-made food, real ales and carefully selected wines.

The two unique and authentic Mongolian yurts are just a short walk up the hill overlooking the Mells Valley. Both yurts can sleep up to six with a double bed, double sofa bed and two Z-beds, pillows, duvets, fresh linen and towels all provided.

They have a wood-burning stove, fire pit, barbeque and induction hob, making catering fun and easy and each tent has a picnic hamper of crockery and utensils to swap when they are dirty – so no washing up.

Each yurt has its own private shower and flushing loo situated directly behind the yurt. Prices include bedding, towels, tea and coffee, fresh milk on day of arrival and enough stove wood for 24 hours. There is supplementary heating in case the stove goes out.

There are electrical points for charging phones, tablets etc – should you feel the need to use them. And well-behaved, clean dogs are accepted, with basket and food available on request.

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Where a relationship goes wrong, where does the Bank of Mum & Dad stand?

IN these increasingly austere economic times, particularly for the young, it is increasingly common for parents to provide financial assistance in getting their offspring onto the housing market.

Often considerable sums of money are involved and yet, because of the nature of family relationships, it is not uncommon for there to be a lack of formality surrounding the deal which can then make it difficult to ascertain the extent to which the parents investment forms part of those assets to be divided between the couple or whether they are entitled to repayment.

In divorce proceedings the Family Court is able to decide what amounts to a matrimonial asset and then has wide and flexible powers in dealing with the division of those assets. Consequently a financial contribution by parents towards the purchase of, say, a matrimonial home in the joint names of a couple needs to be carefully thought out and properly recorded.

Parents who wish to protect their investment might wish to consider adopting one or more of the following options: • A pre-nuptial agreement/ cohabitation agreement made by the spouses/cohabitees setting out the parties intentions in relation to any third party funding; • Securing the money lent by way of a mortgage on the property; • Becoming one of the joint registered proprietors of property; • Entering into a trust deed confirming the parents’ contribution and the amount of the beneficial interest they should have in the property.

• A letter signed by all parties concerned acknowledging the amount of the contribution and the basis upon which it has been advanced.

Which option is chosen will depend on the dynamics of family concerned, the asset being acquired and the level of funds involved.

BUSINESS

The message to get over is that much expense and anguish can be avoided by entering into a firm, clear arrangement which is fully documented before any funds are released. In the absence of such an arrangement there will be an increased risk of the unpredictability and expense of court proceedings in which the Family Court will have to consider all the evidence and then decide in the first instance whether the parents contribution remains as their asset or has ended up as a matrimonial asset to be divided between the couple concerned.

In cases where the parties are not married it is even more important to take steps to establish the intentions of the parties at the outset as in that instance the flexibility of the Family Law Court is not available and a dispute over those funds would have to be determined by another court using normal (less flexible) property principles.

Edward Lyons (Solicitor)

Email: enquiries@lyonslaw.co.uk Website: www.lyonslaw.co.uk Telephone: 01275 332168 An established and progressive law firm providing a personal and cost-effective legal service for commercial and individual clients. ● Family & Divorce Law ● Co-habitation disputes ● Inheritance disputes ● Wills and Living Wills ● Powers of Attorney ● Administration of Trusts ● Property – sales and purchases OFFICES AT: Chew Magna 01275 332168

Westbury-on-Trym 0117 950 6506

Kingswood 0117 967 5252 MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2017 • PAGE 35

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Let there be light!

Lessons in love

Janet and Sonja at Pickwick’s Café in Wells

The Rt Rev Peter Hancock is flanked by the Rev Anthony Dickson, priest-in-charge of the Postlebury group of churches and the bishop’s chaplain Henry Pomeroy, with (front) churchwardens Mary Lynch-Staunton and Shindi Poonia

A SERVICE of thanksgiving turned into a party in the nave to mark the completion of a ten-year project to restore the interior roof of All Saints Church in Nunney.

The Bishop of Bath and Wells, the Rt Rev Peter Hancock, led the celebrations attended by dozens of villagers.

Drab ceiling tiles were removed – once a delicate operation to rehome a colony of bats had been completed – and dormer windows installed to allow in more natural light as part of the £220,000 scheme.

Organisers of the Raise the Roof appeal hope additional work in the church will make it more accessible for community use.

They still need a further £20,000 to complete the project.

The project was overseen by Marcus Chantrey, from Wedmore-based architects Benjamin and Beauchamp, who gave the first reading – The Command to Rebuild the Temple.

Another reading was given by Lee Pearce, from the main contactors C&L Daylight floods the nave for the service of Pearce. thanksgiving PAGE 36 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2017

NEWS

TWO academics from Wells are creating a stir in the literary world – with their own versions of romantic fiction.

Janet Ravenscroft – who writes under the name of Jan Ellis – has just published her third novel, whilst Sonja Price is winning praise for her debut work in the genre.

The pair have become friends and are members of a writing group called Stellar Scribes which includes three other Somerset-based writers. Janet and Sonja have also joined forces to give a series of talks in libraries around the area.

Janet’s background is in teaching renaissance Spanish history – among other things – and has a background in publishing. Her first two books have become part of what she describes as “The Bookshop by the Sea” series, romantic semi-detective novels featuring a bookshop owner from an imagined seaside town in Devon. Janet’s latest novel is a stand-alone in two parts: French Kisses and A London Affair.

Her career as a novelist began by chance: “My publisher suggested I have a go at writing a romantic comedy.”

Sonja, like Janet, is a member of the Romantic Novelists’ Association, but currently spends much of her time teaching in Germany. Her first novel – The Giants Look Down – is set partly in Kashmir and was shortlisted for a Joan Hessayon Award.

It is an imaginary Kashmir – Sonja has never visited – but the characters and setting were more than convincing with praise coming from the Indian media. Sonja was inspired by a radio report about the devastating earthquake in the region in 2005.

Sonja is now working on her second novel; set in Canada, another place she has imagined rather than visited. She said: “I find I cannot write about places that I know well; I know them too well.” ● Copies of the pair’s books are on sale via Amazon and in bookshops such as Waterstone’s in Wells and also in City News. Janet will be speaking at the Tiverton Literary Festival on Saturday, June 25th. Her books are published by the Waverley Press. Sonja’s book is published by Robert Hale.

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Our pets and other animals at Swan Artworks WHETHER celebrating the achievements of an awardwinning pig, a favourite household pet, framing a certificate, photograph – or even a collar – nothing will faze Carrie and Tony Osborne at Swan Artworks in Paulton.

The expert framers really have seen it all and relish the challenge, especially when it comes to something so beloved as a pet.

One of their latest projects was to mark the success of a Mendip-based perfect porcine – owned by James Sage of Hinton Blewett, Blewett Peterbilt 70 was champion male and champion Hampshire at last year’s Royal Bath and West

COLUMBARD PET SHOP 62 High St, Midsomer Norton, BA3 2DQ A warm welcome awaits in our traditional, independent pet shop where our experienced, friendly staff are always happy to help advise on our large range of sensibly priced products. If we don’t have something you need in stock we can almost always get it – please just ask!

Guinea pigs, rabbits, hamsters, gerbils, fancy rats, budgies, finches, canaries, tortoises, bearded dragons, geckos plus tropical & coldwater fish all stocked. Complete starter kits available for all pets at brilliant prices.

SPECIALIST RAW FEEDING SUPPLIERS WITH OVER 100 RAW PRODUCTS STOCKED

columbardpetsupplies.co.uk PAGE 38 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2017

Remembering a beloved member of the family

Show before taking the Pig of the Year award and going on to win awards at a succession of other shows, including the Great Yorkshire Show with Blewitt Peterbilt 76.

James said: “I don’t think I will ever be able to have such a fantastic year with the pigs, this makes it three shows, three supreme championships! As this was the first Hampshire at the Bath & West and in the final, no one else can ever achieve that. What a year. I was so glad that my father, could come to the final and be part of the success. Without his support and help I would not have been able to achieve this success.”

Carrie said: “As well as pet portraits and photos we have framed dog collars in memory of beloved pets, horse show rosettes, and most recently a horseshoe from a famous local horse.”

Pet supplies Tardis!

COLUMBARD Pet Shop in Midsomer Norton is an independent, traditional pet shop, often described as being like a Tardis as they stock such a large range of feeds, bedding, housing, treats and accessories for domestic pets.

Being independent and not tied to a limited brand range means they have access to over 30,000 products. Their customers know that this independence means they can be relied on to keep prices consistently low.

This shop has a dedicated “Raw Room” full of freezers where they specialise in stocking over 100 top quality raw meats, meals and bones for pets at very competitive prices.

Many grain-free feeds and treats are also available.

All staff are passionate about animal care with a great deal of knowledge and experience between them. The hamsters, guinea pigs, rabbits and rats are handled daily so they are comfortable with human contact, which eases settling in to their new homes. They also stock budgies, canaries, finches, bearded dragons, geckos, tortoises plus tropical and coldwater fish.

Pond fish food, pond treatments and a very comprehensive selection of wild bird feeds, including live mealworms, are stocked. Additionally, throughout spring and summer they have an excellent variety of plants for pots, baskets and borders plus locally produced organic compost and gro-bags.

Columbard Pets are open Mondays to Saturdays from 9am – 5pm (6pm on Thursdays) with free parking and a "carry to car" service. Simply check out their website for details -www.columbardpetsupplies.co.uk

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Every dog has his – or her – day SOME may have thought they were barking up the wrong tree, but hundreds of dogs and their owners proved the organisers of the Festival of Dogs in Shepton Mallet were right to stage the four-pawed celebration of all things canine one again.

Collett Park was full to capacity as dog lovers gathered for the second charity event in aid of the Happy Landings animal rescue centre and the Forever Hounds Trust.

Young pups – Adam Savery with Rosie, a cockapoo puppy and John Elliott with Tilly, a jackadoo

PETS AND VETS

Time for walkies …?

… no, time for a run – members of the Wessex Canicross team in action

Springing into action – a collie tackles the Happy Landings course

Laura and Charlotte visited the show from Wiltshire with Jack, Ruby, Hettie and Ramona

Tunnel of love – the agility course was a challenge for these young competitors

MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2017 • PAGE 39

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Beach dog bans in force

A SEASONAL ban on dogs on beaches in Burnham-on-Sea has come into effect.

The ban all beaches between Maddocks Slade and the Yacht Club and runs until September 30th. Dog walkers who disobey the law can be issued with a £75 fixed penalty notice or face prosecution for doing so.

Sedgemoor District Council’s dog wardens undertake patrols at the beaches and will issue fixed penalty notices to those caught with dogs on the banned beaches. To remind people of the dog bans, the wardens have sprayed chalk stencils at locations along the esplanade in addition to the normal signage.

Day care and holiday care for your dog/s

Springfield, Haydon Drove Nr Wells BA5 3EH find us on facebook: Wells & Mendip Dog Day Stay

Personalised care from your family-owned local independent vet

t e

w

Cat-friendly clinic Digital X-ray, Ultrasound and laboratory Opera ng theatre, den stry, hospitalisa on Qualified pet behaviourist Acupuncture and laser therapy

01761 412132 enquiries@midsomervets.co.uk www.midsomervets.co.uk

53 North Road • Midsomer Norton BA3 2QE PAGE 40 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2017

Pets just want to have fun

THE emphasis will be on having fun when Wells and Mendip Dog Day Stay hosts its first fundraising dog show.

Sunday, June 18th really will be a day for all the family with a wide range of attractions on offer at Haydon Drove, on the Bath Road on the outskirts of Wells.

As well as stalls and agility classes, there will be activities for children and a photography competition for the funniest photo of a pet – just bring your photo along to be judged on the day – and St Cuthbert’s School will be providing refreshments.

The day will be not just about dogs; the Cats Protection League will be there and Judy Bowden, who runs Buddy’s Rural Animal Rescue, will be offering advice on what to do if a beloved pet goes missing.

Emma Green, who runs Wells and Mendip Dog Day Stay as well as the Greens of Mendip country store at Rookery Farm in Binegar, said: “Instead of a ‘hall of fame’ we are planning a ‘ball of fame’ where we’d like people to bring photos of pets who are sadly no longer with us to create a lasting tribute to their beloved animals.”

The day runs from 10.30am-4.30pm. For more information, call into Greens of Mendip at Rookery Farm at Binegar or find them on Facebook.

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Acupuncture and laser treatment for pets

PETS AND VETS

ARTHRITIS is a common problem in pets. Many older pets have arthritis due to “wear and tear” as they age but it is also seen due to injury or other joint disease. Anti-inflammatory drugs are normally highly effective. Complementary therapies can reduce the reliance on medicines or provide additional benefits alongside conventional treatments.

Joint supplements can be used alongside anti-inflammatory drugs and special diets such as Hills Mobility have been clinically proven to increase mobility. Acupuncture and laser therapy are increasingly popular treatments that can help improve pets quality of life.

Acupuncture uses needles inserted at specific points to alleviate pain. Ancient Chinese medicine believes that this restores the energy balance, whilst modern medicine explains the effect as releasing natural endorphins and affecting the nervous system control of pain.

Low level (cold) laser therapy stimulates the energy producing organelles inside cells, speeding recovery and alleviating pain.

This is used on acupuncture points or directly over affected joints and tissues.

Vet Helen Kemp MRCVS runs regular acupuncture and laser therapy clinics at Midsomer Veterinary Centre in Midsomer Norton. Each pet is assessed to determine which treatments are appropriate and a treatment programme is planned with advice on exercise, diet, supplements and conventional treatment.

Details: Contact 01761 412132 to discuss how this could help your pet.

New procedure

SHEPTON Vets now offer the convenience of keyhole bitch spays as an option for neutering female dogs over 4kg. Keyhole surgery has been used for many years in human medicine and this technique has been adapted for use with animals.

This newer technique has three main advantages over a normal neutering procedure: ● Smaller wounds – in a keyhole spay three small incisions are made in the abdomen, the endoscope in placed into the ports and the image is relayed to enable the veterinary surgeon to see the ovaries. This is compared to a normal spay procedure where one large incision is made so that the veterinary surgeon has full view of the uterus and ovaries. ● Less internal manipulation – as the fine instruments go directly into the ovaries to remove them, this procedure reduces the damage to the surrounding soft tissues and the ovaries are not pulled while being removed. ● Faster recovery time – patients generally experience less discomfort and blood loss during a keyhole procedure, and so tend to recover more quickly from the anaesthetic.

If you would like to discuss the benefits of keyhole spaying in more detail, please speak to your vet or visit their website www.sheptonvets.com

MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2017 • PAGE 41

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EVENTS

Wrington fair week

WRINGTON had a week of events to welcome the merry month of May, including its history pageant, which is staged every five years.

There was a host of activities including a French café in the Memorial Hall, scarecrow trail, fete and a Victorian day at the school.

Disco and barbecue

Part of the pageant

Renes Cafe

Spring Fair

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(Photographs courtesy of Ann Dale and Bob Bowen)

Victorian school day

Scarecrow trail

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Artistic Cheddar

THE Cheddar Arts Fringe Festival showed the remarkable talents of local artists and crafts people. A walking trail around the village took in 14 venues and the work of 27 artists.

There will be a lasting legacy in the Gorge where willow artist Sophie Courtiour invited people to help her make Soay sheep sculptures, which will stay in the Garden of Fragrance.

Mim Archer

Some of the artists at the launch

The festival was opened by Rick Buckler (right) drummer in The Jam pictured with his brother John, the festival's vice chairman

John Glossop

Pat Northmore (left) Lorraine Chalmers and Dilys Clarkson

Sophie Courtiour with her willow Soay sheep sculpture PAGE 44 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2017

The launch party

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Figures give nod of approval THIS pair of China Trade clay nodding figures depicting a Chinese official and his wife will be offered at Clevedon Salerooms’ Quarterly Specialist Sale on June 1st.

Timeless classic in the June 1st specialist sale. Circa 1977 Rolex GMT Master Ref: 1675/0, estimate £3,000 - £4,000.

ARTS AND ANTIQUES

Standing 65cm high, the figures are dressed in embroidered silk clothing and their heads gently nod by virtue of a counterbalance. It is rare for such early figures to survive intact and whilst traditionally a nod is the most subtle way of showing the auctioneer one’s bid, these days it is more likely to be the click of a mouse by a bidder sat in front of a computer!

Estimated at £2,000 – £3,000 there is every chance that after more than two centuries in Europe, this devoted couple may soon be travelling back to their roots.

The fully illustrated auction catalogue with multiple images of every lot can be viewed now at www.clevedon-salerooms.com

For more information visit www.clevedon-salaerooms.com Every lot in every auction, illustrated and sold with live internet bidding

Fine Art Auctioneers & Valuers

FREE ANTIQUE VALUATION DAYS 5 6 7 & 19 20 21 June

9.30am–1pm and 2pm–5pm Held at the salerooms – no appointment necessary Antiques, Interiors, Collectables & Jewellery 15th & 29th June

Sales start at 10am On view day before 10am – 6.30pm

Tel: 01934 830111 or 0117 325 6789

The Auction Centre, Kenn Road, Kenn, Clevedon, Bristol BS21 6TT www.clevedon-salerooms.com

19th Century Oil on canvas £400 - £600

Pair of side cabinets from Forenaughts, Co. Kildare £800 – £1,200

Pair of Chinese lanterns £3,000 - £4,000

Gill Parker - Bronze £400 - £600

Quarterly Specialist Sale

Thursday 1st June at 10.30am Viewing Days Tuesday 30th May 2pm – 5.30pm and Wednesday 31st May 10am – 6.30pm MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2017 • PAGE 45

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Stunning venues

NORTH Somerset Arts Week featured more than 240 artists in more than 50 venues, as well as theatre and community events.

This was the eighth biennial festival, showcasing the wealth of talent in the area, and some of the venues were very impressive!

Joint chairpersons Gail Mason (left) and Claire Hall exhibited their work at the Meeting House in Claverham

Bird carver John Roberts was one of those exhibiting at the medieval refectory in Congresbury

Clare Hooper exhibited at the Somerset Flower Farm, Wrington PAGE 46 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2017

Brockley 17 and The Creative Cluster showed their work at St Bridget's Church, Chelvey

Hayley Jones, St Barnabas, Claverham

Kirsty Lewis (left) and Victoria Fuller exhibited at the Old fire Station in Banwell

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Horse sculptures race up the bidding

KILLENS had a brilliant auction of antiques, fine art and collectables on Saturday, May 6th, with over 500 lots on offer at the Mendip Auction Rooms in Binegar.

The auction included three bronze horses by the sculptor James Osbourne (1940–1992), one of which was made in 1989 of the highly successful 18th century racehorse Eclipse.

It sold for £2,600.

A pair of Doulton Lambeth stoneware plates sold for £600, one of which was painted of a woman in woodland, while the other was of a wood cabin and was called On the Mountains.

There were many more fascinating items that sold at the antiques auction including a dress uniform and ephemera belonging to Commander Edgar William Edmund Lane of the Royal Navy,

ARTS AND ANTIQUES

comprising his Lieutenant Commander's hat, dirk and epaulettes, which sold for £480, while a pair of early 20th century Japanese still life paintings of flowers in vase and a bonsai tree sold for £310.

On Thursday, May 25th, Killens will be holding a Sporting Sale to start at 6pm, while on Saturday, June 10th there will be another antiques auction at 10am. On Tuesday, June 20th from 10am there will be an auction of Victorian and later effects items – entries are invited for the sale until June 15th.

The team of valuers from Killens are able to provide free valuations of items every Wednesday, Thursday and Friday at the auction rooms, or are happy to undertake a home visit.

The auction rooms can be contacted on 01749 840770 or by email at enquiries@mendipauctionrooms.co.uk

MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2017 • PAGE 47

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International exhibition of miniature art and sculpture at e Town Hall, Wells Saturday 3rd – 10th June 10am – 5pm (Closed Sunday) Wheelchair access • Refreshments available

Join the trail

THERE’S still a chance for local artistic and creative people to take part in this year’s Chew Valley Arts Trail, which will be held on October 14th and 15th.

The deadline for applications for the 15th annual event is June 1st, so there’s no time to lose if you are an artist, photographer, jeweller or craftsperson.

Over the years the trail has proven to be a great, inexpensive way of showcasing the work of people who either live or practise their art in the Chew Valley.

Organiser Sandy Bell said: “We have a number of wellestablished artists, but the trail is also a nice way for people who have never exhibited to dip their toes in the water. They’ll find it’s great fun and will enjoy hearing from visitors appreciating their work.”

Details: Sandy at tintinna@aol.com 01275.333128

Best in Show – ‘Girl with gold earrings’ by Michael Coe The Hilliard Society, c/o Heather Webb Executive Secretary, 26 St Cuthbert Avenue, Wells, Somerset BA5 2JW UK Tel: +44(0)1749 674472 Email: hilliardsociety@aol.com

Take time to discover the Guild

SHOPPING at the Somerset Guild of Craftsmen in Wells offers a very different experience from the average high street store.

So it is well worth taking the short stroll A mosaic by Guild member Kate Rattray, who down Broad staged a workshop at the gallery recently Street to discover the guild gallery through the archway next to Pickwick’s Café. The gallery offers an extraordinary range of crafts, from exquisite batik printed silk scarves to wonderfully tactile polished wooden furniture and much more besides.

Prices are surprisingly reasonable. Craftspeople have to love what they do and so invest time and effort to produce good quality work. But they know they have to compete with mass produced goods on the high street.

There’s no hard sell. The guild was created in 1933 and the gallery in Wells – staffed by dedicated people who have been members for many years and have an encyclopaedic knowledge of the makers or volunteer makers who help out – has been open since the end of 2015.

And many makers are open to commission work. If you're after something special, for yourself or as a unique gift, this may be the place to air your ideas.

A free machine embroidery session with Trish Burridge will be held on Saturday, June 17th and June will also see the sixth annual furniture competition for students.

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20/20 vision at Wells Trading Post TANITH Tothill remembers precisely the day she first saw Wells Trading Post: “I had my own child, two stepchildren and two foster children with me and I thought ‘What an amazing place’.”

So amazing that Tanith was to work there for free for five years to learn all about the business from owners Graham Creasey and Mike Dash and, later, Phil Spearing.

That was 20 years ago and now Tanith – with husband Robin – own and run Wells

Along the lines

ARTS AND ANTIQUES

Trading Post after Graham retired.

Tanith said: “I saw the business and just wanted to be part of it – I still get that same buzz every day.”

Tanith and Robin put a sign outside the business thanking all their customers for their support over the 20 years adding: “Even the annoying ones!”

Tanith added: “Everyone know what we’re like in here. There’s no way you can come in without having a laugh.”

POETRY and sculpture are combined in some of artist Ian Marlow’s latest works inspired by the natural world.

His glass and steel pieces – with poetry etched into the glass – will be on show at Erica Sharpe’s Wild Edge Gallery in Wedmore.

Ian came up with the idea after a chat over coffee with an actress friend. He said: “She mentioned that she often learns her lines while walking in the countryside. Walking does, of course, have One of Ian’s stunning glass and steel a natural rhythm sculptures which allies itself easily to the spoken word or tune. At the time I compared it to the Aboriginal song-lines which criss-cross the Australian land, invisible lines which are sung into being as they are walked. A similarity can also found in military marching bands or the MP3 playlists enjoyed by many runners.

“This casual discussion then became the inspiration for a poem which I called ‘Along the Lines’. At the same time as I wrote this poem I was working on a special series of works where I wanted to combine poetry and sculpture.

“In these works, I use different glass pieces which are then fused in the kilns here at the studio to create a coloured panel which complements the poem which I then etch onto the glass.

The glass panel is then set into the specially designed stainless steel frame, the glass and steel combining with the words to create a unique and exciting work of art.” ● The pieces can be seen at the Wildest Somerset Exhibition at the Wild Edge Gallery, from May 27th – July 29th. Visitors are welcome to see Ian’s work at his studio and sculpture garden in Buckland Dinham but it is best to arrange a visit in advance.

Tanith with the 20th anniversary sign

Now open Wednesdays to Sundays (See website for our opening times in June)

Old Priory Mill, West St, Wells, BA5 2HG. Tel: 01749 671454 www.wellstradingpost.co.uk • email:tanithtradingpost@gmail.com

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The Artist’s Gallery www.tag.uk.net

4 Borough Mews The Borough Yard Wedmore Somerset BS28 4EB

Opening times: Wednesday 2pm–5pm Thursday, Friday and Saturday 10am–5pm

info@tag.uk.net

ARTS AND ANTIQUES

Supporting wildlife and art

01934 713295

WANTED – VINTAGE FISHING TACKLE

HARDY, ALLCOCKS ETC. Also BRASS & WOOD REELS EARLY LURES & BAITS, RODS ANGLING BOOKS TAXIDERMY CASED & MOUNTED FISH

01934 625810

STARTING this month, Wild Edge Gallery, in Wedmore is hosting “Wildest Somerset” - an art exhibition celebrating the diverse natural history of our varied county.

The wildlife of coast, hills, wetlands, moors and beyond have inspired the featured artists, whose work will raise funds for Somerset Wildlife Trust.

The show opens on May 27th with special guest, Stephen Moss, naturalist, TV producer and author of many books including the BBC’s Planet Earth II. The exhibition is raffling an original chalk and charcoal hare drawing and running competitions to win copies of Stephen’s books on social media. The show runs until the end of July.

Details: www.wildedgegallery.co.uk

New exhibition TRAVELLING water colour artist Moish Sokal has returned from his search in South America for his mentor, Benito, who he lost

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track of over 34 years ago.

Despite travelling widely, he didn’t find him, but he did find inspiration for a new body of work.

This new and exciting collection, together with that from his earlier trip to Scotland, features in his exhibition High Adventure at the Malthouse Gallery, East Lambrook Manor Gardens, which opens on June 6th.

The exhibition marks a new period in his work and shows to the full his love of bringing the vivid beauty of the world to his paintings.

Details: www.moishsokal.co.uk 07812 837825

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CLAVERHAM Mayday raised £639.76 for the village hall. The May Queen was Erin Keeny and the attendants were Megan Kicks and Ella Bailey.

Organisers said they would like to thank all the people that helped make it a great day.

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EVENTS

Car fans defy the rain

DRIVING around Mendip in more than 150 vintage and classic cars had been a picnic until heavy rain arrived just as many were reaching the end of the tour in Wells.

The run, organised by the Classic and Historic Car Club, began at Puxton Park and included a stop for lunch at the Webbington Hotel, before the cars – many complete with drivers and passengers in period costume – reached the Cathedral Green 85 miles later beneath a downpour.

The tour – in its 23rd year – was raising money for MacMillan Cancer Support and the sun came back out to greet hundreds of onlookers who gathered to admire the vehicles.

Gizmo the dog and owner Mike, from Walton, in their Hillman Imp rally car nicknamed “Willy” after England’s 1966 World Cup mascot

John and Nancy Alcock, of Yarley, and Ron and Fay Pitman, of Rodney Stoke, took the award for the best-dressed entrants in John and Nancy’s 1925 bullnose Morris, which was making its debut

Gerry and Val Pringle, of Long Sutton, with their red 1954 MG TF, which enjoyed life in Australia and the United States before coming home

A 1936 A Speed Alvis 20 5D Vanden Plas, from Pilton with Wells Cathedral providing a stunning backdrop

Derek Phillips, of Langford, was awarded the prize for the best car chosen by Alison Gibson, the Mayor of Wells – a 1915 Model T Ford

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Challenging the stigma around disability with sporting success

MARIA Francis, from Timsbury is a sport-loving woman who is used to challenging perceptions around disability.

Now she is part of a new fundraising push to pay for more inclusive sporting

opportunities across the county.

Maria, 43, originally from Plymouth, has cerebral palsy and has lived at the Leonard Cheshire Disability care home Greenhill, Timsbury, for 12 years. She recently won a bronze medal in the Boccia England first ever individual competition for the inclusive ball sport.

Now she has set her sights on helping to make sure sport is more accessible to disabled people.

She said: “Disabled people are just the same as everybody else.

It doesn’t matter if you are in a wheelchair. I don’t like the way people stare at you in a wheelchair, that’s what my pet hate is.”

Maria’s team, the Greenhill House Boccia team, first started competing with the Boccia England National league in 2014.

Along with staff and residents at Greenhill House, they are throwing a spectacular masquerade ball at the Assembly Rooms in Bath this year, with top sporting celebrities on the guest list.

Maria said sport has made a big impact on her life: “It has really changed me. Before finding Boccia, sport did not interest me.

When I’m doing Boccia, I feel great and it’s made me stronger.

The more I do sport, the bigger difference it makes.

“The number one thing in sport must be accessibility. When everyone can take part in sport, you get to meet lots of other people. I enjoy meeting children and seeing older people out in the community.”

Greenhill volunteer co-ordinator Ann Birtwistle, who supports the inclusive sport in Greenhill House and in the wider community said: “The best way to challenge assumptions about disability is to get out and participate. Only then will clubs and facilities see their shortcomings and have a chance to find solutions.

“Sport brings people together in a way that improves confidence and resilience. It gives people the strength to tackle any uncomfortable experiences they might face as disabled people in the community, perhaps on a daily basis. The psychological benefits of sport and exercise for mental health and well-being are well documented.”

Greenhill House have set themselves a fundraising target of £10,000 for the ball on Saturday September 23rd, where Olympic gold medal winning athlete Jason Gardener MBE is one of the special guests.

Details: Tickets, £95, are already on sale and can be bought via greenhillevents@leonardcheshire.org or 01761 479902.

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Choral concert cheques

(Left to right) Maggie Charlesworth, from the Lawrence Centre, Philip Welch, Wells Dementia Action Alliance and Bridget Harvey, from Heads Up, receive their cheques from Wells Lions president Ian Burt

A CHORAL feast for the ears has resulted in a cash bonanza for three Wells charities.

Wells Lions organised a concert with the Caerphilly Male Voice Choir at St. Cuthbert’s Church in March and raised £3,500.

The Lawrence Centre in Wells and Heads Up in South Horrington, two charities which support dementia sufferers and their families, each received £1,500. A third charity, Wells Dementia Action Alliance, received £500 to support its work raising awareness of dementia in the community.

Wells Lions chose dementia support as its principal charity two years ago and has donated £7,000 so far, in addition to aiding other charities and good causes locally.

More than £10,000 has been raised and donated locally by the Lions in the past ten months.

The beneficiaries received their cheques at a special presentation in the White Hart Hotel, attended by the Mayor of Wells, Alison Gibson.

Meanwhile, the annual May Fair organised by the Lions made a profit of £1,600 as well as providing a full day’s entertainment for thousands of residents and visitors. The Lions will be donating £1,000 from the day’s takings to Children’s Hospice South West.

To find out more about the club find them on Facebook, phone 01458 210926 or email: millerburt@btinternet.com

Support for new charity

A SOMERSET salon is supporting a new charity which provides a wig styling service for people suffering from cancer and medical hair loss.

The charity mynewhair has been founded by celebrity hairdresser, Trevor Sorbie. Two hair team members from SENSE at Coxley, Lindsay Grantham and Becky Smart, have trained to provide a wig cutting and advice service.

Lindsay has also been in training for a 40-mile bike ride, raising £1,000 for the charity.

Details: sensehsb@btconnect.com 01749 670121 www.mynewhair.org

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CHARITIES

Snooker supports sick children LOCAL charity Jessie May has received a donation of £40,000 from the snooker world championship title sponsor to mark 40 years of snooker at the Crucible, in Sheffield.

Jessie May, which provides hospice at home care for terminally ill children in Bristol, Bath, North Somerset, South Gloucestershire and Wiltshire, was chosen as World Snooker’s official charity partner for the 2016/17 season.

At the start of the championship, Betfred pledged £200 for every century made during the 17-day event, to be rounded up to £40,000 if the total hit 80 centuries. When the target of 80 centuries was not reached, Betfred boss Fred Done rounded up the total anyway.

He said: “The players may not have hit 80 centuries, but the snooker on the 40th anniversary of the Crucible has been magical and so that’s why I’ve decided to donate the £40,000 to Jessie May which does an amazing job and is a very worthy cause.”

Julian Withers, head of fundraising at Jessie May, said: “The response to having been named charity partner of World Snooker has been phenomenal, I don’t think we ever imagined how big it would be!”

Charity supports RUH

Ken Doherty and Dennis Taylor present cheque to Julian Withers of Jessie May

Last year World Snooker chairman, Barry Hearn, visited Bristol to meet nurses and some of the children cared for by Jessie May. This year Barry will be hosting a special evening at Ashton Gate, along with snooker legend Steve Davis.

Jessie May is currently caring for 129 terminally ill children in the area and a further 41 bereaved families.

Details: www.jessiemay.org.uk

A CHEQUE for £90,000 was handed over by the Mayor of Bath and patron of the Bath Cancer Unit Support Group charity (BCUSG) Councillor Paul Crossley to Brian Stables chairman of The Royal United Hospitals Bath NHS Foundation Trust.

Last June Mary Berry unveiled the hospital’s £1.2 million PET-CT scanner, the first to be installed in the West Country, which was funded by BCUSG’s PET-CT scanner appeal.

The charity was asked to raise a further £90,000 to fund much-needed additional equipment. Pictured (l to r) are Mike Coombs, treasurer, Tino Polledri, vice chairman, Councillor Paul Crossley, Brian Stables and John Carter, chief executive and chairman of BCUSG. In thanking the charity for its latest donation, Brian Stables said the charity, which was founded in 1985, continues to be run by volunteers and has so far raised just over £4,500,000, all of which has been spent on improving facilities for cancer patients attending the RUH.

SOUPer-troopers!

AN organisation which offers live music opportunities for young people with special needs was the main winner of the latest SOUP event in Wells where guests Holding their cheques are the presenters of the vote for the four charities: Michael Hay (Abbeyfield Wells), cause they consider the Jane Harwood (Count Me In), Mike Barnes most deserving (Parkinsons UK) and Margaret Hendy (Mothers Union). At the back are Johnny of cash support.

Francis, master of ceremonies Paddy O’Hagan Count Me In, and Cathy Judge which runs Heartbeats – a safe place for the young people to express themselves, make friends and be creative – was awarded £300 at the event in the Seager Hall.

Three other charities each received £100 at the event, organised by Wells Independents: Mothers Union, Abbeyfield Wells and Parkinsons UK. Pupils from Wells Blue School provide the soup lunch and there was live music by Cathy Judge and Johnny Francis.

Part of the £600 raised for the charities came from the £5 door charge, with the rest coming from sponsors Bowley’s Garage, Protec, Pilgrim Financial Planning and Belleview House B&B. The next Wells SOUP will be at the same venue at 1pm on Saturday, July 8th.

MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2017 • PAGE 55

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Cider run for charity

IF you are not doing anything this August bank holiday, you and three friends could be part of the first ever Cider Circuit on Saturday August 26th at Nailsea and Backwell rugby club.

It’s raising money for the charity Meningitis Now and is being organised by Sophie Coghlan, who contracted meningitis when she was 12.

The circuit is a 5K relay involving various obstacles and challenges. All team members must run at least two laps of the 1K circuit in any combination that they choose – for example one lap each and then all four team members complete the last lap together.

There will be prizes for the winning team, raffle, and a free pint for competitors from Thatchers, or soft drink if preferred.

Sophie, who is a young ambassador for Meningitis Now said: “I wanted to organise a fun charity event for Meningitis Now and decided to go with an obstacle course.

“The course will be fun and challenging and I thought what better way to celebrate and relax afterwards than to have a nice pint of cider – and so the cider circuit was born!”

Sophie spent two weeks in intensive care at the Bristol Children’s hospital after contracting meningitis. Thankfully she made a full recovery, and was determined to help raise awareness of the disease by supporting Meningitis Now. She said: “I feel very passionately that people should be made aware of the symptoms of the disease so they can be more prepared than I was. Holding events like the Cider Circuit helps to raise awareness.”

It costs £40 a team to enter.

Details: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/SophieCoghlan2

Good eggs

CHELWOOD Bridge Rotary raised £1,720 for four local charities thanks to the support of 24 local businesses, who held a draw to win their giant Easter eggs.

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CHARITIES

The effects of cancer

LOCAL charity We Hear You has launched a new report which throws light onto the psychological impact of cancer.

One in two people in the UK will get cancer at some point during their lives and this report demonstrates the need for the provision of counselling to help patients and families at any point to come to terms with the “life changing” effects of cancer.

Melissa Hillier, director said: “This study explored the experiences of some of those that have used our service. We were interested in understanding more about those we support to enable us to improve and develop our free professional counselling service to best meet the needs of our community.

“The report shows that cancer is a life changing experience, no matter if you are a patient or carer, and that living with uncertainty can be extremely distressing leading to high levels of depression in those we spoke to.

“The work also shows that our counselling service helped participants in developing positive coping strategies, for example around fatigue and the regulation of emotions.

Counselling also helped clients to move forward from their cancer experience, people felt more able to manage their emotions and to support themselves and those around them.”

Last summer WHY brought together an advisory group of individuals who had been affected by cancer and working with those that were accessing the service they carried out detailed interviews and analysis of the impact cancer and the counselling service they provide.

The report highlights commonalities amongst patients and carers on a number of key areas including impact on family life, use of healthcare services and of how cancer is a life changing experience.

This report is the first of its kind to be produced by We Hear You and it has made several recommendations for further study and evaluation which the charity will now be seeking resources to undertake.

We hear You provides emotional support to anyone affected by cancer or other life threatening conditions and works across B&NES, Somerset and Wiltshire.

Details: www.wehearyou.org.uk

Charity fashion show

RESIDENTS and visitors were treated to a charity fashion show recently at Clare Hall Nursing Home at Ston Easton. The outfits were provided by M & Co in Wells, as were the models along with some of Clare Hall’s own

staff strutting their stuff on the catwalk.

The evening raised £170 towards the home’s residents’ fund and formed part of a varied programme of events being arranged for the residents and their families.

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WILDLIFE

Blackbird singing in the dead of night

THE opening line from a famous Beatles tune, but was Paul McCartney’s inspiration really a blackbird?

It is unusual to hear

By CHRIS a blackbird singing in SPERRING the middle of the MBE night, though they will sing just before dawn. There are many birds that can sing at night, but I wonder whether he was actually singing about the most famous songster of the night?

The nightingale is a bird that inspires so much in literature and has inspired many a piece of music and poetry.

Compared to its impressive song, this little bird is not much to look at.

Measuring around 16cm in length, with predominantly brown plumage, grey underparts and a reddy-brown tail, when it sings that really doesn’t matter.

This impressive nocturnal songster could compete with the best of the daytime birds. Its loud song is quite varied, with clicks and whistles which start slowly and become faster, ending with a climatic volley of notes.

Once common, these magnificent birds are now much more scarce. Their decline is likely to be due largely to the loss of their favoured scrubland habitat. They love nothing more than hiding themselves away in dense thorny bushes, where they

can blast out their song in safety. This scrub also provides them with all the insect food they need, which they will even collect whilst singing.

Nightingales are only here for the summer, as they spend our winter in subSaharan Africa. They should continue to sing into June, particularly those unmated males that sing into the dead of the night, although their fabulous song can also be heard during a sunny evening walk.

Listen for nightingales where there is dense scrub (go to my Facebook page if you want to hear and see a video recording to help with identification).

There are a few isolated spots where they can still be heard on the Somerset Levels and Crook Peak was a traditional haunt.

It will be worth the effort as the song is spectacular.

A nightingale sang . . . they may be heard on the Levels or Crook Peak rather than Berkeley Square

Call to farmers

I WILL be out and about throughout June monitoring barn owl nests. Early indications point to them having a good year, and I’m hoping to monitor around 200 sites in Somerset this year. So if you’re a landowner or farmer please let me know if you’re seeing barn owls at the moment.

Wildlife encounters

Join Chris on a barn owl hunt

Nightingales are revered for their song rather than their appearance

AFTER a fantastic badger watch in May, with four cubs playing around us, I am looking forward to leading more wildlife encounters throughout the summer. Please email me for more details of how you can join one of these events, including barn owl walks, wildlife walks and owl prowls.

Chris Sperring is Conservation Officer for the Hawk and Owl Trust Contact him on 07799 413 918 or chris.sperring@btinternet.com

MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2017 • PAGE 57

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Along the coast from Clevedon

SUMMER is an ideal time for this breeze of a circle from Clevedon taking in Poets’ Walk, Wain’s hill fort and as much of the coastal path that is open. There is birdlife aplenty and stupendous views as well as an interesting close look at the tidal mud patterns of the Severn Estuary.

After the coast path, head inland on a good track and go through quiet fields crossed by rhynes before following the bank of the Blind Yeo. There are no major hills and it could be a doggy favourite. Don’t expect to have the coastal path and Lovers’ Walk to yourself. There is no refreshment enroute but there is the Salthouse at the end and other options in Clevedon.

With Sue Gearing PAGE 58 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2017

PARK: In Salthouse Fields car park in Old Church Road (£4 for four hours) or find free street parking nearby.

START: Head for the wall along the estuary by the marine lake where you will probably see swimmers enjoying themselves. It was a significant swimming area for county events, including springboard and high board diving and many swimming galas from 1929 until the 1980s and a training pool for many Channel swimmers. Sadly, recession took its toll and it fell into disrepair. Then in 2000 the campaign to restore it began and thanks to the Heritage Lottery Fund it has been completely renovated and reopened in 2016.

Walk towards the Salthouse pub with the estuary and marine lake on your right. The Salthouse was originally used as a salt mine in the late 1800s before it changed to a private house. Salt panning took place and buildings, furnaces and retaining walls were set up on what is now Salthouse Fields.

Go straight on up one flight of steps into the woodland and then right on the Tarmac path joining Poets’ Walk.

1. POETS’ WALK The walk is said to have inspired poets such as Alfred Tennyson, Samuel Taylor Coleridge and William Makepeace Thackeray, who visited the town. The path we are on today dates back to 1929.

The views on a clear day are superb.

Pass the circular top of the marine lake pumphouse and continue up to Sugar Loaf Point and the stone turreted Lookout. Here the Finzel family of

importers used to watch out for the safe return of their sugar-laden ships returning from the West Indies in the 19th century. It has recently been restored. Ignore all side paths, walking round the edge of an old Iron Age fort, Wain’s Hill. Continue on the coastal path. Pass the graveyard of St Andrew’s Church.

Reach a well-sited bench with a good view over Clevedon Pill. Bend round and drop down. At the junction at the foot, turn right, passing one or two large boats and then come to a slipway at Clevedon Pill.

2. CLEVEDON PILL Continue on the coastal path and soon pass an information board about the Pill.

As you approach the sluice, drop down to re-join the concrete path. Cross the Blind Yeo at the sluice and go through a kissing gate and come onto the stony coastal path close to the estuary. Pass Clevedon golf links on your left.

Further on you can take the shorter route and fork up left on the higher path but to enjoy the estuary for a bit longer stay on the lower path as long as tide conditions make this possible. On the lower path carry on until you can go no further and then loop back up to rejoin the top path and reach the marked footpath. On the upper path go up and shortly find the marked footpath on the left.

The coastal path around the country is still a hoped-for goal of Natural England but so far there is still no possibility of continuing further. Eventually the aim is to link up with Middle Hope and Sand Bay.

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WALKING

3. FOOTPATH Follow this track between hedges, through a gate halfway along and then all the way to the lane.

4. LANE Turn right. It is reasonably quiet. Continue for about 0.3 miles passing a farm to a sharp right bend with gates left.

5. FIELDS A couple of footbridges on this next section which were in a bad repair have been reported to the North Somerset Rights of Way team so hopefully they will be improved. At the side of the seven-bar gate is a footbridge in the hedge with footpath marker. Go over this. The official path goes straight across the field parallel with the right hedge to a footbridge but if crops make this difficult follow the farmer’s track at the side. At the far side of the field cross the footbridge. If the footbridge looks too difficult, go through the gate on the farmer’s track and then turn right into the field at the side and come to the other side of the footbridge.

Now go along the left side of the field and bend left round the field corner. Soon cross a footbridge on the left just past willow trees. Aim diagonally across the field to the corner in the direction of the two masts. Go over a footbridge and ahead along the left hedge to cross another stile on the left. In this field stay parallel with the right hedge and at the hedge corner,

5.5 miles (or easily shortened). 3 hours walking OS Explorer 141, Cheddar Gorge & Mendip Hills West, grid ref: 396 710

bend right (don’t head across to the stile on the far side) still following the hedge.

6. FARM TRACK A farm track leads out from the corner (no footpath marker). When I came it was covered with Astroturf! Follow the track passing a dilapidated shed. Continue to another gate opening and follow the footpath diversion arrows right around the field, round two corners passing a farm on your left. It may be rather rough in this field. In the third corner go through the marked wooden gate by a metal gate and ahead on a grassy track passing a pond left. Go out over a stile along the edge of a garden and out onto a drive. Follow this along to a road, Lower Strode Road.

7. ROAD It’s right now. Avoid Colehouse Lane turn

and carry on to cross the Blind Yeo river.

This is a man-made channel built in 1949 to help alleviate flooding in the Kenn Valley.

8. RIVER Immediately go left. Either follow the main track or go down to a footpath alongside the Blind Yeo. Come back to Clevedon Pill where you were earlier. Go ahead and then bend right, retracing your steps.

Here you have choices: A. Turn left following Poets’ Walk again. If you take this route, when you reach the well-sited bench you can cut up right across grassy Wain’s Hill passing a WW2 shelter and continue in the same direction to come back and re-join Poets’ Walk. The views on top are splendid. Then just go back to the start.

B. Or, for a change, ignore Poets’ Walk and go on past a barrier to join the end of Old Church Road. Go past a cemetery and cemetery church and take the first left No Through Road which leads to St Andrew’s Church passing its restful garden. Go up to the right of the church to enter Poets’ Walk Nature Reserve. Shortly, at the signpost, either go right to take you back to Salthouse Fields or go left and this leads you back at the side of Church Hill to where you were earlier on the coastal path (Poets’ Walk). Retrace your steps right.

The Salthouse, tel: 01275 343303

MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2017 • PAGE 59

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West Countryman’s Diary

WE are almost half-way through the year!

Just like the bathwater disappearing down the plug-hole, this year seems to be going rather quickly. My hopes of warm and sunny days are to a certain extent being realised.

The evenings are a delight and the With LES blackbird sings his heart out in my garden DAVIES MBE at the end of the day. There is, however, some concern as to just how long this dry weather will continue and what the consequences of it will be.

The ground is cracked and the grass has not been growing as would be expected at this time of year. Well that's fine for me, I don't have a “lawn” as such, just a couple of patches of grass that I like to keep cut and tidy. What the knock-on for a second cut of silage will be has yet to be seen.

I’m told that this has been the driest winter for years, which is some cases has had its advantages, such as being able to get onto the land, but temperatures have stayed low for quite a long time, slowing down the growth.

As I was once told by a farmer in Baltonsborough near Glastonbury: “We can stick a dry time after the Bath and West show, but not before.” How right he was. The spring period needs water to get everything going and the warm April showers have always provided that.

We all want it to rain at night whilst we are asleep and don't need to go out. Then we want the sun to shine and warm our long summer days in this green and pleasant land.

Not too much to ask for is it? Many will remember 1976, which after a dry spring produced a drought that didn't break until September.

I recall desperate farmers trying to buy hay to feed their cattle where no grass existed. I never pay too much attention to the newspapers and their forecasts of scorching summers and freezing winters, just hoping they’ve got it wrong again this time!

“The oak before the ash it’s going to a splash; ash before the oak, it’s going to be a soak.” Often heard, but rarely reliable, this old rhyme is one of many based on countryside folklore. Such sayings were brought about by observation at a time when scientific data was somewhat lacking.

Having done a little research on this subject, I find that the number of times the ash has come out before the oak within the past 50 years have been very few. It would appear the oak will come into leaf in a warmer spring quicker than the ash.

The result could be as much as six days earlier per one degree Celsius rise in temperature. As we seem to be in a situation of rising temperatures through climate change, it could knock this old saying right out.

Mendip can withstand a dry time better than the Levels.

The underling limestone on the Hill is able to hold water – that is why Mendip is one of the largest limestone aquifers in the South of England. The late Dr “Willy” Stanton estimated that around 72 million gallons of water would come out of the Mendip Hills on a daily basis, that's around 324 million litres.

Willy didn't just pluck this figure out of the air. He was a

OUTDOORS very well respected geologist and hydrologist who based his estimation on rainfall and area. I suspect that figure may be a little lower this year. Stone close to the surface will also hold the moisture plants need, especially grass which is why the Mendip farmer comes up “trumps” in a dry time!

Warm dry weather also brings the risk of fire on Mendip.

Thankfully there hasn't been anything as bad as the 1977 fire on Black Down, where virtually every fire pump in what was then the county of Avon was deployed to tackle it. Certainly the removal of bracken will have helped reduce the fire risk.

In the past Black Down was often set alight in the belief it was controlling the bracken. The outcome was quite the reverse, however, as a potash-rich residue produced by the burnt bracken fed the underground rhizome system and strengthened the growth.Today wild fires can still cause havoc. The Waldegrave pool area near Priddy seems to go up with monotonous regularity. Such fires there are rarely caused by a “natural” ignition but more by human carelessness.

At this time of the year I like to point out the problems of ticks. This year is no different, in fact it may be worse after the dry and relatively mild winter. Many more of these unsavoury little fellows will have over-wintered and be out there waiting for the next warm-blooded creature to pass by.

Looking somewhat like a spider they will crawl around on the host until they find a suitable spot to bury their head below the skin and feed off the blood. Once they have gorged themselves, and swollen up to several times their normal size, they detach themselves and fall to the ground.

Removing them from you or your dog needs care and a special tick removing tool that looks somewhat like a claw hammer can be purchased for this purpose. Don't forget to carry out your body checks when in the shower at the end of the day, as well as covering up when you are walking through areas of bracken and rough grass. Frequent checks for these unwanted hitch hikers will reduce the risk of being bitten. Don't be afraid… be aware.

Finally a nice bit about summer! Congratulations to all those who won county nominations for Somerset, Dorset, Wiltshire and Bristol in this year’s Environmental Youth Awards, sponsored by HSBC Bank and the Royal Bath and West of England Society. These presentations will be made at the Royal Bath and West Show on Friday June 2nd by TV personality Valerie Singleton.

You will also be pleased to hear we have a Mendip winner for the Bristol nomination this year. Mya-Rose Craig comes from Compton Martin and is a pupil at Chew Valley School, not to mention being a Young Ranger with the AONB. Her innovative work to introduce Black and Asian minority groups from Bristol into the environment has been quite inspirational. Why not read her blog at http://birdgirluk.blogspot.co.uk/ Don't forget to come and see us at the show. The Environmental Youth Awards are under the judges’ commentary box on the main ring.

This month’s picture (in the background) is pure summer magic – sunrise on the Levels.

You can always contact me through my website: Westcountryman.co.uk

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June is busting out all over . . .

… WELL it might be if April had not been so dry. After such a dry April and early May it will probably not stop raining in June but just in case With MARY we do have a dry PAYNE MBE summer there are many things you can do to ensure your plants stay in good condition.

Before planting out your summer bedding make sure the plants are thoroughly watered, ideally the night before, and water the areas they are to be planted in. Post planting, watch out as every slug and snail in the neighbourhood will be able to smell your plants and make a bee-line for them.

Water is a valuable commodity and should be used sparingly where it is most required. Any newly-planted trees, shrubs, hedges and perennials will need careful watering. Watering in the evening ensures the plants take up the water before the heat of the next day.

Immediately after watering a mulch will help trap the water in the soil.

Woodland bark mulch is ideal for permanent plantings and a 5cm (2”) layer will also inhibit weed seed germination.

For vegetables, grass clippings can be used, provided the grass has not been treated with a “Weed and Feed” product as the chemical will still be in the clippings.

A layer of newspaper under the grass clippings will also help and will break down into valuable organic matter in time.

Water butts are great when they are full but pretty useless when they are empty.

If yours, like mine, is empty then take the opportunity to clean it out before the rains come to refill it. The soft rain water is ideal for those camellias, rhododendrons and Pieris that need an acidic compost.

Plants in containers need special care as they cannot search for water in the restricted area of compost. For summer pots of colour, a water retaining gel can be helpful, and if porous terracotta pots are used, line the inside with a plastic carrier bag leaving the drainage hole free. Standing containers in saucers will also help, as the water that runs through the pots can be sucked up again by the PAGE 62 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2017

Cistus obtusifolius

compost.

When watering your garden it is vital that you do not simply dampen the surface. This encourages the roots to rise up to the damp layer, and then suffer if they do not get continuous watering. A thorough watering is ideal, preferably in the evening, and that should last for several days, do not simply dampen the surface.

To save water whether you are watering containers or individual plants in the garden use a “gun” on the end of the hose with a trigger so that you can turn off the water between pots.

Germinating vegetable seeds sown direct in the ground can be very vulnerable to water shortage. Always water the drill before you sow the seeds.

Covering them with the drier soil helps to retain the moisture below. For even greater success try swelling some water retaining gel and then whiz it in a liquidiser. Pour it into a plastic bag and cut off the corner so you can squeeze the gel into the bottom of your seed drill.

Then sow your seeds on top.

Vegetables vary in the amount of water they require. Once germinated beetroot can usually survive without any extra, whereas new potatoes need plenty of water when the developing tubers are the size of marbles. Runner beans need plenty of water once they start flowering, but French beans are more tolerant of dryer conditions.

There are many automated watering systems for use in containers, both in the garden and in a greenhouse, and these apply the water where and when it is required, saving both time and water. In

the absence of an automated system in a greenhouse, pots of tomatoes, peppers and aubergines can be stood in shallow trays and water added to the tray allowing the pots to suck up what they need.

If you are concerned that climate change will mean drier conditions, then planning for the future may be prudent.

Areas of your garden could be turned into gravel gardens, planted up with drought tolerant plants. The layer of gravel helps to stop water evaporating from the soil and also looks attractive.

There are very many colours and sizes to choose from and the gravel of your choice will set off the plants perfectly.

How can we tell if a plant will be drought tolerant or not? Plants that come from the Mediterranean region are used to hot, dry conditions. Lavender, Cistus and rosemary are ideal. Grey or silverleaved plants are also suitable as the leaves are covered in a dense layer of hairs that trap a layer of more humid air in the leaves.

Plants that grow from bulbs or rhizomes also fare well. Bearded iris, day lilies, nerines and tulips can all cope well. Many of the ornamental grasses, especially those with blue foliage, such as Festuca glauca and Helictotrichon sempervirens, will survive.

Other groups of really well-adapted plants are those that have succulent leaves like, sedums and semperviviums.

They can store water in their thick fleshy foliage and this ability has led to them being used on roofs where the weight restrictions mean only a shallow depth of growing medium is possible.

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JUNE GARDEN TIPS

● Put up hanging baskets for colour and scent all summer. ● Winter flowering Pansies and spring flowering Wallflowers should be replaced with summer flowering bedding plants now. ● Lift and divide clumps of primroses and polyanthus. Heel them in a shady place for summer and they can be replanted in your borders again in autumn. ● Continue planting out summer flowering bedding plants.

Long flowering traditionals like pelargoniums, busy lizzies, petunias and begonias are hard to beat! ● Magnolias can be pruned this month. ● Box hedging and topiary are best trimmed this month. Mix the clippings with lawn mowings to improve the compost you make. Check hedges for nests before trimming them. If there are nests there, delay until fledglings have flown. ● Grow plants with simple, single flowers to encourage insects. Not only are they interesting but they also are food for many other forms of wildlife. ● Regularly remove side shoots from tomato plants (unless you have a bush variety) and gradually increase watering and ventilation as they grow bigger and the days get warmer. Support plants well and gradually remove the lower leaves as they turn brown. ● Make sure that your potatoes don’t run short of moisture now. The new tubers should be forming now and will respond well to a thorough watering. First early potatoes should be ready for lifting now!

Courtesy Cleeve Nursery

Garden draws the crowds

WHEN they first opened their garden last year at The Old Vicarage in Weare in aid of the National Garden Scheme, Trish and Jeremy Gibson were absolutely amazed when they had 570 visitors in a single weekend.

The vicarage is hidden away behind high hedges and they think the way they'd transformed an old tennis court into a show garden in under a year certainly gripped people’s curiosity and imagination!

This year the garden opens from 2pm–5.30pm on Saturday June 24th and Sunday June 25th.

Details: www.oldvicaragegardeners.com and Twitter @Oldvicgardeners

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Paving slabs, building materials, fencing, aggregates, DIY and hardware, water gardening and garden centre.

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The Coalyard, Station Close, Backwell, BS48 1TJ Contact us – Tel: 01275 851706

MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2017 • PAGE 63

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Signing off with a success

THE last-ever open garden and plant sale at Rookery House at Mark has raised £2,300 for the Somerset Wildlife Trust.

More than 200 people attended to enjoy the garden and refreshments in aid of the trust’s Mendip Hills Area Group.

Organiser Norman Lees said: “Thanks go to Sainsbury’s and Somerlap and many individuals who provided raffle prizes, and to everyone who was able to help either by providing plants and cakes and by assisting in the organisation for the event and on the day, and by coming to buy.

“Thanks also to Gill Isgar and Mark and Ricky Popham for the use of the field as the car park.”

www.sheptonclassicstone.com

Japanese Maple and Tree Sale Up to 40% off throughout June

Wrington Road, Congresbury BS49 5AN

Tel: 01934 876337 www.middlecombenursery.co.uk PAGE 64 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2017

NGS GARDEN OF THE MONTH

Model Farm

OPENING for the second time for the NGS, Model Farm Country House, a couple of miles to the west of Bridgwater, sits on the rich flood plain of the River Parrett.

Owners Dave and Roz Young moved to Model Farm almost eight years ago from Dorset. There was a three and a half acre grass field in front of the house where they planted 600 trees in the first year.

Since then Dave and Roz have created a dozen mixed beds, a wildlife pond, several areas of wild flower meadow and a small orchard.

The garden is mainly informal with a cottage garden style and the majority of plants have been selected with wildlife in mind. A rondel is situated near the entrance where several pergolas have recently been erected and planted with a selection of climbing plants. There is plenty of seating around the garden with some great views of the nearby Quantock hills.

In front of the main house is a fairly standard front garden, while to the side is a new extension in a quarteracre walled garden which is currently being renovated as a vegetable garden.

NGS opening details: Sunday June 18th 2pm to 5.30pm.

Admission: £4 with accompanied children free.

Contact Information: Dave and Roz Young, phone: 01278 429953 email: daveandrozontour@hotmail.com, website: www.modelfarm.com Address and Postcode: Model Farm, Perry Green, Wembdon, Bridgwater, Somerset, TA5 2BA. Other Gardens Open for the NGS To see more gardens open for the NGS, see The Yellow Book, or Local County Leaflet, available from local Garden Centres.

Or go to: http://www.ngs.org.uk

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GARDENING

Gardeners’ paradise THE third English Country Garden Festival will take place at The Bishop’s Palace and Gardens in Wells, from Friday June 9th – Sunday June 11th, 10am-5pm.

The annual event was first launched

by Alan Titchmarsh in 2015 and is a celebration of the horticultural heritage held within the plantsman’s paradise of The Bishop’s Palace and Gardens.

Visitors can experience the award winning gardens, which recently featured on BBC Gardener’s World, filled with talks, stalls, hands-on demonstrations, refreshments, entertainment, top gardening personalities, a full schedule of activities and inspirational ideas on how best to use and enjoy their gardens.

There will be a fantastic line-up of horticultural guest speakers throughout the festival, including Matthew Biggs, Anne Swithinbank, Tamsin Westhorpe, Alan Power, Jane Moore and Cleve West.

Other activities will include a range of

“have a go” skills and crafts including flower arranging, felting, card crafting, a “Gardener’s SOS” giving advice on all nature of gardening problems and issues, BBQ food on the south lawn, live music

from bands including The Somerset Levellers and The Longest Johns (recently featured on BBC TV) and an English Country Ceilidh on the Saturday afternoon.

Details: 01749 988111 or at www.bishopspalace.org.uk

MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2017 • PAGE 65

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Growing your garden

The cost of having your garden professionally relandscaped can often put homeowners off of the idea of having their plot redesigned, but fear not.

Experienced garden designer Eliza Gray advises that with careful preplanning, you can redevelop your garden in stages, as and when you have the time or money to do so.

She said: “I have worked with many homeowners over the years, who have asked me to help them with a plan for their gardens. With a clear end-goal, you can pick and choose which areas are a priority, and work, stage by stage, towards a cohesive final result to suit your budget. Gardens are always developing and changing, not just over the seasons, but over the years too.”

Eliza Gray has been running her well-respected garden design company for more than 10 years. Working across Bristol, Bath and the Mendips, she offers a range of services, from one-off consultations costing £120, through to planting plans and full redesigns.

Details: www.elizagraygardens.co.uk

S

afe secure and very, very strong with a Colourfence you really can put an end to your fencing problems. Tried, tested and trusted across the UK, Colourfence is guaranteed† to last. Unlike wooden fences once installed you don’t need to worry about costly, time consuming maintenance.

You need not paint it, you won’t ever patch it, and it will stand fi rm in the worst of the weather. Your fence looks after itself so you can look after (and enjoy) your garden.

Installed by highly trained specialists, once your Colourfence is up, it really stays up offer you a lifetime of hassle-free enjoyment of your garden. Visit www.colourfencesouthbristol.co.uk in for more information or simply call number below to arrange a FREE no obligation site visit.

Bristol South District Tel. 0117 214 1201 Clevedon, Tickenham, Portishead, Nailsea, Backwell, Long Ashton, Pill, Failand Tel. 01275 277211 Shepton Mallet, Wells Tel. 01749 321066 Weston Super Mare, Yatton, Congresbury, Cheddar, Axbridge Tel. 01934 235591 Temple Cloud, Blagdon Tel. 01761 202411 PAGE 66 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2017

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Timberwork Buildings Bespoke buildings to suit you

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SHELTERS & STABLES PLAYHOUSES Let our dedicated team assist you in your choice whatever your budget . . . Full design, installation and delivery service available – customise your shed to suit your needs

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THE TIMBERYARD • SHUTE SHELVE • CROSS • NEAR AXBRIDGE Tel: 01934 732 396 • www.timberworkbuildings.co.uk e.mail: timberbuildings@aol.com

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Tel: 01934 626093/813261 www.westongarden.co.uk

MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2017 • PAGE 67

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Chelsea bound

Regular lawn mowing plus lawn mowing for any small or large areas.

Hotels, Pubs, Residential/Nursing Homes, Private Homes. etc.

GARDENING

New from Hayter

THIS greenhouse in Hutton is home to some of the prize vegetables going into one of the main show gardens at the Chelsea Flower Show.

As Mendip Times went to press, grower Terry Porter was preparing the garden at Chelsea, with a chance of meeting the Queen and a host of other VIP visitors.

So how does he get such perfect vegetables ready in time? We’ll have more details next month.

NOW AVAILABLE FROM:

PERFECT PAVE

75 Greenhill Road, Sandford, Winscombe, North Somerset BS25 5PA TEL: 01934 852151 • www.gabgardenmachinery.co.uk

Perfect Pave, based on the Valley Line industrial estate, in Cheddar, has built an enviable reputation over the last 16 years for the quality of its work installing block paving and other landscaping products. Now founders Alex Howley and Simon Bethell have set up a new service run by James Starmer supplying these products to both the trade and public, as well as continuing to expand their installation team. e company now has contracts all over the South West and offers a wide choice of projects.

Now supplying – as well as installing – landscaping products to the commercial and domestic trade Wider range and cheaper prices than builders’ merchants or garden centres

Showroom open 8am-5pm Mon-Fri 8am-12noon Sat PAGE 68 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2017

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GLASTONBURY FESTIVAL 2017

D o c t o r s a n d t he m e d i c s h o p e f o r f e el g o o d f a c t o r

By Mark Adler

THERE can’t be many people who go to Glastonbury hoping for a quiet time – unless they’re running the on-site medical centres, that is.

But for more than 30 years a group of GPs, other medical practitioners and support staff have been thinking precisely that.

This has become a cliché, after all – when a community at least the size of Bath springs up in fields around Pilton, there will always been a need for their services.

From its origins at the 1979 Glastonbury Fayre with a couple of doctors from Shepton Mallet – with the help of Red Cross volunteers – working from the kitchen at Worthy Farm, the medical facilities at Glastonbury are now widely-recognised as being at the forefront of event welfare … from prevention to cure.

So much so that their expertise has helped to create a not-forprofit company specialising in providing medical support for Glastonbury, Reading and a host of other big events – and helping a variety of medical-related charities across the world at the same time.

Festival Medical Services, based at Evercreech, can call on a team of around 400 volunteers for this year’s Glastonbury Festival. To misquote the band Dr Feelgood, living on Milk and Alcohol is always going to present its problems, let alone the weather which can lead to a mud bath or hardas-bone ground.

There is virtually nothing – apart from midwifery services (expectant Glastonbury Festival-goers are actively discouraged from setting foot on site) – that the teams can’t handle in terms of advanced first Life-saver: a First Response aid with equipment on site to Emergency Care training session match. underway in Evercreech

It’s little surprise that podiatrists are in demand at Glastonbury – just one of the services provided at the medical centre

Ready to respond: Chris Howes with some of the FMS fleet of fourwheel-drive emergency vehicles

After the kitchen table came a large tent, followed by portable buildings and, since the mid-80s, a large marquee with reception area, consulting “rooms” and X-ray and ultrasound facilities.

There are also medical posts on other areas of the festival site with a team of first responders available for emergency calls.

From around 300 cases in the early years, the team can now expect to see around 4,000 people each Glastonbury, but the highlevel care means just a fraction of patients need to be transferred to hospital for their treatment.

This year, FMS will again be providing medical facilities at Reading and also, for the first time, at the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta.

FMS managing director Chris Howes was a trainee GP when he attended the 1979 event under the wing of the now-retired Dr Alan Blandford – Alan had been involved since 1970. Chris, who has now also retired, said: “Alan thought it would be a good project for me to be involved in; something like a temporary branch surgery. It’s now rather more substantial.”

FMS is regulated by the Care Quality Commission and offers advanced training courses including First Response Emergency Care, which provides an income stream. It also receives donations.

It supports projects overseas ranging from a telemedicine scheme linking doctors in Afghanistan with experts in the UK, to a scheme to tackle malaria in a village in Gambia and outreach medical posts in Ethiopia.

The doctor will see you now – a queue outside Worthy Farm in the early days of Glastonbury

For details about the work of Festival Medical Services, visit: www.festival-medical.org

MENDIP TIMES • JULY 2016 • PAGE 69

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What is healthy eating?

THE research is so confusing. The Japanese eat less fat than us and have fewer heart attacks; the French eat more fat than us and have fewer heart attacks. The Japanese drink less red wine than us and have fewer heart attacks; the French drink more red wine than us and have fewer heart attacks.

In fact, you can eat and drink what you like. It's

By Dr PHIL speaking English that kills you.

HAMMOND This is clearly nonsense, but it shows the difficulty of proving cause-and-effect, particularly when it comes to food. It's very hard to adjust a trial for a single variable when the food contains so many different chemicals and our bowels contain trillions of different bacteria waiting to greet it. So all research and fad diets should be taken with a pinch of gluten.

Many “clean eating” diets avoid gluten altogether. This is essential if you have coeliac disease, or just feel much better off gluten. But a study of 110,017 Americans without coeliac disease discovered those with the highest gluten intake were 15% less likely to have had heart attacks over 30 years than those who went “gluten free” for whatever reason.

The heart protection comes not from the gluten per se, but from eating wholegrains (wheat, barley and rye).

Your gut is like a garden. It thrives on variety and moderation (fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, wholegrains, fish, lean meat, dark chocolate, red wine etc). A healthy gut has a wide variety of gut bacteria, whereas those with chronic illness often have a much narrower range because they are wiped out by antibiotics.

Those whose essential gut bacteria have been decimated by disease may be greatly helped by healthy poo transplants (via the bottom end). Some swallow capsules of healthy gut bacteria (fondly known as “crapsules”).

I’ll be sticking to the Mediterranean diet but I will be turning a blind eye to bogies. Snot apparently contains a rich source of healthy bacteria which prevent bad bacteria sticking to teeth and could reduce the risk of a wide range of infections.

As Austrian lung specialist Professor Friedrich Bischinger puts it: "Eating the dry remains of what you pull out is a great way of strengthening the body's immune system. When it reaches the intestines, it works just like a medicine."

As Mark Bolan might once have sung “We were born to bogie”.

Dr Phil’s Health Revolution tour is in Swindon on June 21st and Bradford-on-Avon on July 13th www.drphilhammond.com

PAGE 70 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2017

Plop the Raindrop

I SOMETIMES wonder how I got here. Not where I am right now, stuck in snot on the end of a camel’s nose.

And I don’t mean I wonder who my parents are – they are still on holiday in Spain. But where did they come from and their parents before them?

We think that our ancestors came from space. Imagine a giant ice-berg which crashed into this spinning bit of rock called Earth. They say that’s how water got here.

But what are the chances of that happening? There are lots of bits of rock like Earth and other ice-bergs probably hit them too.

But I don’t see that any of them have icecream or swimming pools, which some water droplets like me like to live in.

Unless you are unlucky enough to be stuck on a camel’s nose temporarily.

And how was water invented anyway?

People have lots of theories about how the world was created.

But we believe there are giant taps high in the sky.

That’s where I came from a few billion years ago, when someone pressed the hot tap and water came pouring out. Maybe other taps produced gases, metals and lots of other stuff, just like volcanoes.

But though I was born at the beginning of time and will live forever, I haven’t a clue who built the taps and neither does anyone else. Or how people and everything else came to live on earth.

Some of my ancestors used to hold festivals honouring our creation with a tap dance. But we don’t bother with that kind of thing these days.

I once heard a seagull say she had flown from the stars. A white polar bear said he had walked from the Milky Way. We all came originally from the dust of space. So who is to say that’s not true?

There’s probably not enough time in the day to worry about such things. Better to live for a better future, rather than fret too much about an impossible past.

This camel has just sneezed, so I’ll be off on another adventure. Perhaps I’ll find my mammoth!

MENDIP GRANDAD

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HEALTH & FAMILY HEALTH & FAMILY

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From head to toe – June is the time to think about your feet

EVERYONE takes eye care and dental care for granted, but feet can – and do – require just as much attention.

Which is why Sue Boothroyd, who runs Foot Faerie Podiatry Centre at Rookery Farm in Binegar, is taking part in Foot for Life Month in June, being organised by the College of Podiatry.

And Sue is anxious to highlight the fact that foot problems are most certainly not confined to older people. She said: “We are seeing an increasing number of young people with problems ranging from ripped toenails and verrucas to poor gait and general neglect.”

Foot Faerie offers a comprehensive range of treatments for almost every foot. Treatments include: routine podiatry, diabetic foot care, ingrowing toenail treatments including nail surgery, nail reconstruction, warm wax treatments and much more.

Sue, who has taken on two new receptionists – Allie and Carolyne – to welcome patients to the centre, which also offers other therapies, added: “Who should visit a podiatrist?

Everyone, basically. Podiatrists are highly trained and experienced health professionals who specialise in feet of all ages.

“All feet should have routine assessments, to make sure that small problems don’t turn into BIG problems later on – just the same as a dental check-up.”

Foot Faerie Podiatry Practice

Unit 11, Rookery Farm, Binegar, BA3 4UL Tel: 01749 372404 Web: www.footfaerie.co.uk

MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2017 • PAGE 71

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Mendip Times Michael makes the day at The Mendip School reduces travel costs GLASTONBURY Festival 100,000 potential customers within a short distance of your business

founder Michael Eavis was the guest of honour at the official opening of The Mendip School at Evercreech, a specialist school for children aged four to 19.

The school, which teaches youngsters with autism, speech and communication needs, has been built on land at the Royal Bath and West

David Gregory, CEO of The Partnership Trust. The bunting behind him was made by members of Evercreeech WI, who also donated brightlycoloured aprons for the children to wear in cookery classes

W NO ITING RU EC

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Now in our 76th year, we are the provider of choice for 4 x Local Authorities having recently been awarded the ‘Support to Live @home’ Contract for North Somerset Council.

As we are growing we have a variety of jobs available leading to great career opportunities across our organisation. Contact us now if you would like more information.

To start your career with Brunelcare call now on 0117 914 4200 or email recruitment@brunelcare.org.uk

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WILL YOUR BUDDING HEART BLOOM THIS JUNE? Caroline Crowther is a truly local personal introduction agency helping you meet someone new in your area. We offer a long term personal service until you find your perfect match.

For a professional and personal service call 0800 180 4788 or 01934 744788 PAGE 72 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2017

Michael Eavis and school principal Emily Massey in front of a commemorative plaque in the school hall

showground.

The Mendip School is a member of The Partnership Trust, which runs Fosse Way special school in Westfield and a number of other schools. It opened last September with 28 pupils and expects to welcome 71 in the new school year, with around 30 staff.

Michael, president of the

Royal Bath and West Society when the school was given the go-ahead, told guests at the opening: “The land could have been used for a business or some other commercial venture, but this really is the best thing possible to have happened. It’s absolutely fantastic to have the school here and it’s a tribute to the vision of the Bath and West.”

Do you enjoy caring for people?

BRUNELCARE is a large provider of home care and support in Somerset, including the North Somerset area. Dedicated homecare teams based in these areas provide a comprehensive range of services – all designed to meet someone’s individual needs.

Their community carers are provided with excellent working conditions, paid for every moment worked during their shifts and not just for their time spent caring; along with being paid for all travel time and mileage between calls.

Asked why they work as a carer, one of their community carers said: “I just love caring for people. It’s about enabling someone to stay living in their own home and helping someone who can’t do the basic things for themselves.”

Free, comprehensive training is provided by Brunelcare.

To consider working as a community carer and to find out more about the company see: www.brunelcare.org.uk/jobs

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Quantum Life opens

A NEW wellness and therapy centre has opened in Wells, bringing a group of qualified experts under one roof. Quantum Life was founded by Karina Wilson-Meijer, who has opened the holistic practice in Mill Street, a short walk from the city centre.

Karina said: “We live in stressful times and often lead hectic and busy lives. This stress takes a toll on our health and relationships. I am a firm believer that our health is an interconnected system in which nutrition, exercise, sleep and stress-reduction all play a vital part.

“Having spent many years researching optimal ways in which to nourish body and soul, the idea was born for a place which can provide nurturing services to people wanting to make a change in their lives or their loved ones through complementary therapies, training, coaching, mentoring and meditation.”

Karina, who settled in Pilton in 2002 with her husband and two children, added: “In addition to the specialist pelvic health services we already have on offer there are plans to develop specialist menopause and andropause services in the near future.”

For therapists wishing to join the Quantum Life team, please contact Karina on 07787 506378.

Karina will be hosting an open evening at Quantum Life on Saturday, July 15th from 5-7 pm. For details, visit: www.quantumlife.org.uk

HEALTH & FAMILY

Clare Hall Nursing Home

Tel: 01761 241 626 • www.clarehallnursinghome.co.uk

A relaxed and homely environment

Clare Hall Nursing Home, Ston Easton, Radstock, Somerset BA3 4DE Fax: 01761 241 727 Email: manager@clarehallnursinghome.co.uk

A new space for health & wellbeing in Wells

Our professional prac""oners offer a variety of treatments:

● Pelvic Health (Men & Women) ● Mummy MOT (Post Natal Package) ● Massage (Thai Yoga, Chi Nei Tsang, Sports, Therapeu"c) ● Pain Clinic (Emme# Technique) ● Kinesiology ● Nutri"on & Lifestyle Counselling ● Medita"on and Mindfulness Tui"on ● Acupuncture (see website for full details)

MILL LODGE, MILL STREET, WELLS, SOMERSET BA5 2AS TEL (FOR GENERAL ENQUIRIES): 07787 506378 www.quantumlife.org.uk MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2017 • PAGE 73

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YFC Rally brings hundreds to Langford

COUNTY SHOW

SOMERSET YFCs’ county rally was held at Stepstones Farm, Langford, courtesy of the Alvis family and attracted hundreds of people from right across the county.

As usual it was a showcase of the serious business of farming and a lot of fun!

Will Atwell from Claverham shows daughter Elsie, 15 months, the sheep

Lawnmower racing was competitive

The show had an Australian theme!

PAGE 74 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2017

How many young farmers can fit on a surfboard?

Farrington Gurney juniors in the tug o' war

Lottie Hill, aged 14, from Nyland with show champion Smarty Pants, calf show judge Brandon Wilcox (left) and county chairman Jamie Wall.

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CAVING

Going down in the world WHEN is a cave not a cave? When it is a pothole. The difference is a bit academic, but caves tend to be generally horizontal, with a With PHILIP gentle descent and few HENDY or no vertical drops.

Potholes are usually deep shafts or pitches, connected by more level passages.

The subterranean passages of Mendip and South Wales are referred to as caves, while in Yorkshire there are many deep shafts, so these are referred to as potholes.

So explorers can be cavers or potholers, depending on individual fancy or the type of cavern they visit.

The first Mendip pitches were discovered in Swildon’s Hole in 1901 by the original explorers. The first was estimated as being 40 feet deep, although when it was descended, the true depth was found to be only 32 feet (10 metres). The name stuck, although sadly the Forty Foot Pot was bypassed in the floods of 1968, leaving only a three metre drop.

Beyond this lay the Twenty Foot Pot, which in fact is only about 15 feet (five metres) deep. The Forty Foot Pot bypass can be easily free-climbed, although the Twenty is usually descended on a ladder.

All other steep parts of the main streamway can be climbed without equipment, leading to a final depth of 167 metres, although only cave divers can get to the end of the cave. Interestingly, below the Twenty lie two streambed potholes, the Double Pots.

The stream flows rapidly though both pots, which can be avoided by skilful traversing around them, although most cavers just jump in and wade across.

Accidentally falling in christens the caver Shower Pot in Bath Swallet

as a true son (or daughter) of Mendip!

Although most Mendip cave passages can be descended without vertical drops which require the use of tackle, there are some notable exceptions. Eastwater Cavern has several. One route to the original bottom of the cave leads via the Twin Verticals, two eight-metre drops which are usually laddered.

The Primrose Pot is reached at the end of a very tight descending crawl, the Primrose Path. The 57-metre drop has two ledges, and can only be negotiated by very slim, determined cavers. The West End Series, first entered in 1983, has several pitches, up to 25 metres deep.

Although the early cavers often relied on being able to climb a rope, or being lowered down by their colleagues, it was not long before ladders came into use, usually with a lifeline as a safety backup.

Clearly, rigid ladders have little use in exploring caves (though several now have them, for convenience), but the mariners’ rope ladder with wooden rungs was brought into service. They are bulky and heavy, more so when wet, and have to be carefully maintained and inspected as they have a tendency to rot.

However, many were dragged down caves, and passed bodily from man to man, and they did a sterling job in furthering cave exploration. Later, after the war, flexible wire ladders with aluminium rungs came into use. They were much lighter and durable, and incredible depths were explored with them.

They were used in the early descent of the 400-metre Provatina in Greece in the 1960s, a feat which would make many modern-day cavers quail. Meanwhile, in the United States, cavers (or spelunkers) were developing equipment for climbing ropes.

Single Rope Technique, or SRT, is now widely used on long roomy pitches. The ropes are less bulky than the equivalent length of ladder, and there is no need for a lifeline. Each caver wears a harness, and carries a descendeur for getting down, and a pair of ascendeurs for the return. There are many designs, and each caver has his trusty favourites.

Although SRT is the favoured way of descending most northern pots, and the technique is used on many foreign

A Burrington mineshaft

(Photography by Phil Hendy)

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expeditions, Mendip is fortunate in having caves suitable for practising the required skills. Indeed, many cavers visit these caves just for the thrill of the rapid descent, and often rapid return.

One of the most popular is Rhino Rift, in Longwood Valley. The total descent is 84 metres, although difficult take-offs, and two steep ledges covered in loose rocks, mean that the ropes have to have deviations, which are bolts drilled into the rock, where the hang of the rope can be adjusted to avoid abrasion, and to prevent the dislodgement of precarious boulders.

Thrupe Lane Swallet, above Croscombe, has several pitches suitable for SRT. Atlas Pot is 25 metres deep, although experienced cavers can gain a ledge high in the roof, where High Atlas makes a spectacular descent of 58 metres.

The caves of Burrington are generally fairly short and do not require the use of tackle. They are popular with novice cavers and commercial caving organisations.

However, digging in a short unassuming little cave, Bath Swallet, in 2001 cavers found a pitch in two sections, Shower Pot, totalling 15 metres deep.

Later, another team connected Rod’s Pot in an adjacent depression, with Bath Swallet, via the six-metre Purple Pot. It is a sporting through-trip.

Many Mendip caves were discovered by digging deep shafts, which are often lined with concrete pipes to make the entrances stable. Some have integral footholds, but it is usual to use a ladder. Such shafts are normally gated, for safety.

The whole point of caving is to descend into the bowels of the Earth, and after many years of experimentation and modification, we now have reliable and lightweight equipment which allows us to get there quickly and easily – and to make a safe return.

Phil has been caving for more than 50 years and is a member of the Wessex Cave Club. He has been involved in producing several caving publications and until his retirement was a caving instructor at Cheddar. His main interest is digging for new caves.

MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2017 • PAGE 75

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A festival for all ages

SAMBA drumming, maypole dancing and a carnival procession are not the typical types of activities you’d expect to find at a retirement community.

But this was just some of the entertainment enjoyed by visitors to the St Monica Trust’s Sandford Station retirement community over the May Day Bank Holiday.

Retirement community manager, Will Ryan said: “This festival was a wonderful opportunity to showcase our residents’ many talents, as well as enjoy some amazing performances from the Bristol Old Vic Professional Young Artists, the Bristol Preconservatoire and the Original Spinners.

“We want Sandford Station to be an open and inviting place, with communal facilities and activities that bring together people from different generations. Events like Mayfest are a great way of helping us achieve this and we hope to see all our new friends come back to see us again soon.”

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Details: St Monica Trust 0117 949 4004 o

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004 or email info@stmonicatrust.org.uk.

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EVENTS

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Fifty years of friendship

STREET is twinned with Notre Dame de Gravenchon in Upper Normandy, with each town visiting in alternate years. This year, Street was the host town and it was a special occasion, being the 50th anniversary of the signing of the twinning oath.

The visitors arrived by coach very late on Wednesday April 12th and were met and taken home by their host families. From then on it was a full programme of events, right up to their departure on Sunday morning.

On Thursday two coach-loads had a full day visit at Longleat, with lunch in the Cellar Café. It was a new experience for some of the British families and thoroughly enjoyed by all, especially the children Friday was free time with host families, until the evening when they all gathered in the Meadway Hall at Compton Dundon for their Jubilee Dinner and Dance. The hall was decorated beautifully and the roast dinner excellent.

Not too much time was spent on the speeches but there were presentations from both groups to Bernard Squire, for whom this was his last formal engagement before stepping down after 12 years as chairman.

The first event after lunch on Saturday was the joint planting of a tree in Merriman Park to commemorate the 50-year association. The visitors surprised their hosts by wearing a 50year T-shirt and then delighted them by presenting one to each of them.

It was then a short walk to the Victoria Field Sports Club for an afternoon of games, followed in the evening by a barbeque and disco, all hosted by Street Parish Council.

Fortunately all the teams were made up of a mix of French and English, young and old, because games such as skittles and rounders were novel experiences to many of the French. The evening ended with presentations by the Mayor of Gravenchon, Madame Virginie Carolo and the chairman of Street Parish Council, Cllr. Tim Rice.

It was a tired, happy and in some cases tearful group who gathered to see them off on Sunday morning and they look forward to next year’s visit to Gravenchon.

Despite the title, membership of the association is not restricted to Street residents. A good few of their members live in Glastonbury and many of the surrounding villages.

The association is also twinned with Isny, in South West Germany. Visits again take place on alternate years, with Street going to Germany this June.

Details: Claire Axten 01458 840207 or you can attend the agm in Walton village hall on September 7th at 6.30pm.

Golden moment for a silver bus

SUPPORTERS and users of the Midsomer Norton and Radstock community bus have celebrated the 50th anniversary of the service.

The charitable trust which runs the service was formed in 1967 by public subscription after a campaign by local Rotarians and the Red Cross to provide a community minibus for use by the disabled, handicapped and infirm members of local groups. The first vehicle – a Commer van – cost £1,325.

The service relies on volunteers, including drivers and is keen to attract new supporters.

Amongst the guests was Bill Freeman, chief executive of the Community Transport Association, who said: “Part of the challenge facing any charity is sustainability. You really need younger people coming in from the side to ensure longevity.” ● Community groups wanting to hire the latest 12-seater vehicle should contact transport co-ordinator, Debbie, on 01761 416910. To become a volunteer driver contact Nick on 01761 413872. To help with administration, contact Melvyn Volunteers, trustees and guests in front of the latest minibus at a party at Welton Rovers Football Club on 01761 452585 or David on 01761 413473.

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Make time for tea

COMMUNITY

Bluebell walk

A SUM of over £170 has been raised for St Mary's Church in Compton Dando, thanks to a walk celebrating St George's Day. Between 30 and 40 walkers joined local man Ron Walker, who led them in a walk around the village, ending up in a wood full of bluebells.

After the walk everyone went back to the church where they enjoyed homemade cake and a cup of tea.

Time for tea: Elaine Walsh, Janet Shepherd and Kai Poa-Tams, from Rode Post Office, serve visitors from Frome

ORGANISATIONS on Mendip which support older people who might be suffering from loneliness are appealing for more volunteers to join them.

Contact The Elderly organises informal get-togethers over afternoon tea for anyone feeling isolated, especially in rural communities.

It relies on volunteers to host events – whether in their homes or their businesses – and for people to act as drivers and helpers.

In the Frome area, the organisation is being supported by Active and In Touch Frome which helps and befriends people who have become isolated or out of touch with the community around them.

Recently, Rode Post Office and Stores hosted a Sunday afternoon party for elderly residents and visitors from Frome.

Elaine Walsh, who runs the post office – which also has a café – with husband David, said: “I’d heard about Contact the Elderly and thought hosting a tea party would be a nice thing to do. For some people this is the only time they get to meet and chat.”

Contact the Elderly also runs a group covering Shepton Mallet and Wells and there is so much demand that there are plans to open a second group. ● For details about Contact the Elderly, contact development officer Helen Ker-Bridges at helen.ker@contact-the-elderly.org.uk (tel 01225 873812) or by visiting: www.contact-the-elderly.org.uk Details about Active and In Touch Frome can be found at: http://activeandintouch.weebly.com or by contacting Lucia Chadwick, Somerset You Can Do Development Worker on 01278 664180.

A group of friends from Rode raise their tea cups to Contact the Elderly

Tribute to Hugh

ROTARIANS in Glastonbury and Street have paid tribute to Hugh Berry, one of their colleagues, who collapsed and died whilst out walking.

Hugh was a longstanding member of the Glastonbury and Street club and a recipient of the coveted Paul Harris Hugh Berry: fellow Rotarians say award for meritorious he will be sorely missed service, whilst also being an active member of the International Fellowship of Motorcycling Rotarians – Rotary’s own “Hells Angels”, as he called them. Additionally, he was also heavily involved with other local organisations such as the Pilton Village Show and the Glastonbury Male Voice Choir.

Meanwhile, the club was pleased to a cheque for £8,000 to Avalon School in Street’s head teacher, Alison Murkin, towards their Avalon Hydro Appeal. This money was raised at an evening with Mary Berry event at the Strode Theatre in Street last December. It has also welcomed two new members: Alan Wilton and David The cheque presentation to Avalon School Titchener.

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New studio for talking newspaper

FROME Talking Newspaper has a new home with a studio located in the newly refurbished Town Hall after spending the last few years at various temporary locations within the town.

The recordings are distributed on memory sticks free of charge by post to the registered blind and partially sighted of the area and also broadcast on Frome FM on Saturday and Sunday mornings.

Pictured are readers Marjorie Morris, Gill Fone, Susan Dobbs, Crispian Hollis and engineer Roger Davis.

Starting them young

CHILDREN, who regularly attend a junior skittles club at Clutton Social Club, enjoyed their awards night, when they were presented with medals, trophies and cups at the end of their latest season.

Sessions are held on Monday evenings and there are two groups of children's skittles – eight years and under which starts at 6.15pm and ends at 7pm, and over eights from 7pm to 8pm.

The cost is £1 per child and they get a biscuit, squash and lollipop.

Organiser of the under-eights, Linda Hanlon, said: "All the children really enjoy playing and the mums, dads and grandparents love to cheer the children on. All the children received a medal and there were cups for the top score and runnerup for both groups. New players are always welcome."

Her youngest player is aged just two.

PAGE 80 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2017

In memory of Sara

NOMINATIONS have opened in Peasedown St John for the village’s Sara Holley Community Award – launched six years ago in memory of one of its most popular residents. In April 2011 Sara Holley, who was well known and respected for her love of the community, unexpectedly passed away at the age of 42.

Over many years she played a key part in numerous community projects, including her involvement with the first Party in the Park festival in 2009. To remember Sara, the Party in the Park festival team, in partnership with her family, introduced the Sara Holley Community Award.

Sara’s sister, Sally Fricker, said: “I know that my sister loved the village and would have felt great pride having a community award named after her."

Chairman of Peasedown’s Party in the Park, Nathan Hartley, said: “As a Peasedown native, Sara loved our village immensely and always wanted the very best for it, and for those that live here.

“Those that had the pleasure of knowing Sara will have many happy memories that they’ll cherish forever. She is missed by everyone who had the opportunity to meet her, and those who are active in the community can continue to make the village she loved a better place.”

The award itself will be presented by Richard Wyatt, former HTV/ITV news presenter, at the village’s Party in the Park festival on Saturday June 10th and the recipient will be selected by Sara’s family.

In 2011 the Sara Holley Community Award was won by Andrew Day, a member of Peasedown St John Methodist Church, who set up a Tuesday night youth group to provide more activities for local youngsters.

In 2012 Joy Gosz was selected to win after spending the last 20 years running a variety of community initiatives and projects for local people.

Four years ago, husband and wife team Martin and Lisa Smith picked up the award for the tireless work they have done to encourage teenage boys to get involved with football. They run Peasedown Youth Albion – the village’s youth football team.

In 2014, in recognition for an outstanding seven decades of voluntary work, Ken Wilcox won the award for his efforts to make Peasedown Cricket Club the thriving establishment that it is today.

The following year community stalwart Nina Philips was recognised for over 30 years’ service with the Brownies and Guides as a committed and dedicated leader.

And last year in 2016, Joy Fraser, the creator of the Somer Valley Foodbank, which has fed over 4,000 people in need of emergency food, was awarded for her hard work.

Any member of the community can nominate anyone they believe meets the criteria. All nominations must be received by the Party in the Park team by 5pm on Friday May 26th.

Details: www.peasedownpartyinthepark.org.uk

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COMMUNITY

Friends aid historic church A GROUP called The Friends of St James the Great, Winscombe was formed in 2009 to help preserve and enhance the only Grade I listed building in the parish. So far, they have raised almost £30,000.

St James the Great is considered to be one of the most beautiful of the Somerset churches, both for its architecture and situation, sheltering from the worst of the elements of the South West under Wavering Down and overlooking the glorious countryside of the valley to the north.

As a first major project, the friends commissioned new churchyard gates to celebrate and commemorate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, in 2012.

These gates were designed and made by Richard Bent, a renowned designer blacksmith from South Devon.

Various events, such as Burns’ Night, and lectures are held in order to raise funds for ongoing and future projects.

The next project to be completed was when the clock face on the tower was restored. The work was carried out by

Jazz in the Paddock

Smiths of Derby.

The most recent project has been the cleaning of the medieval windows, some dating from the 15th century, and the installation of new polycarbonate sheeting for their protection. The work was carried out by Holy Well Glass of Wells.

Their next fundraising event will be Jazz in the Paddock on Saturday, July 8th at 7pm next to the church (BS25 1DE), when The Big R Big Band will

return to play swing Jazz of the 1930s and 1940s. The gate opens at 6.30pm and organisers suggest you take a picnic, your favourite beverages and a rug or folding chairs.

If it rains the concert will be held in the church. Tickets £10, U-16s £4, family two adults and four children £25, are available from local businesses Farrons, The Wine Shop, Church Office, The Hampden Clinic or Caxton Library.

Restoration of the clock face

Burns’ Night

Diamond Jubilee Gates

Work on the medieval windows

MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2017 • PAGE 81

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Flat market drives prices up but rents rise more slowly

We’ve got it covered

MOMENTUM is continuing to ebb in the South West housing market as both newly agreed sales and buyer interest remained flat in April, according to the latest survey from the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors.

It found the general consensus is that new instructions continue to drop in the region, caused by a lack of choice, uncertainty due to the calling of an early election and the ramifications of stamp duty changes.

In April it says new instructions remained negative for a third month in a row, leaving average properties on estate agents books hovering close to record lows, with no meaningful growth since November 2016.

Despite the subdued backdrop, 44% more respondents believed prices increased in April – this is up from 22% in the previous month – due to the moderate levels of stock. As such, house prices continue to rise in the South West, with the pace of growth remaining steady over the last five months.

It says house price inflation is anticipated to accelerate in the three months ahead. The 12-month expectations also predict that the South West will see growth in house prices.

In the South West lettings market, the quarterly data shows tenant demand continues to increase albeit at a slower pace than the previous quarter. At the same time, landlord instructions were increasingly low leading respondents to expect rents to grow modestly in the region.

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PROPERTY

Variety is the spice of life DAVID James & Partners’ second collective land and property auction of 2017 attracted a wide range of rural property investors, from boat clubs to potential new fruit farmers and pension funds. The traditional farmer bidders were also present and did secure one lot from the six lots on offer. The average price per acre was £11,500.

DJ& P Auctioneer, Richard Nancekivell, was pleased with the level of interest and variety of buyers seeking rural property with potential to improve and enhance value. He said: “In the

current climate land represents a safe, secure and potentially wise investment.”

Their next collective land and property auction is on Tuesday, July 25th and entries so far include Corndell Farm at Mark in Somerset, which combines a fine detached modern farmhouse, two barns for conversion, some agricultural buildings and five acres of land.

South Barn at Loxton is a substantial stone barn conversion which has previously been used as office accommodation and now has planning for residential use. It enjoys a south facing location and lovely Somerset views from its 1.8 acres of land.

The Barn at Robins Lane, in Burtle is the other end of the scale – a farm building in rural location with planning for some 1500 sq ft of accommodation; it stands alone and some land is available by separate negotiation.

Another event that attracted a good deal of attention was the North Somerset Show

Keren receives her award for long service from Richard Nancekivell

on May 1st, where visitors were attracted to the DJ&P stand beside the members tent and enjoyed hospitality and good weather until the rain came in the late afternoon. The competition to identify the places of interest was won by Jason and Abi Budd from Clutton.

Keren Poynter from DJ&P Wrington office celebrated her long service with the company with a party in the Orchard, hosted by Richard Nancekivell. The lunchtime gathering was attended by all staff including Goose the office dog!

For more information on DJ&P auctions or an up-to-date price for your property, please contact David James & Partners 01934 864300

W

Mark Somerset

W

W

NE

NE

NE

Guide Price £850,000

RESIDENTIAL AND DEVELOPMENT! A substan(al detached 4 bedroom modern farmhouse, with detached four bedroom brick and (mber barn for conversion (PP granted) and addi(onal detached barn for conversion. Agricultural building, yards and in all 5.27 acres. EPC: D. Ref: 25342 FOR SALE BY (AUCTION UNLESS SOLD PRIOR) JULY 25TH 2017

Guide Price £465,000

Wick St Lawrence North Somerset PERIOD FARMHOUSE WITH 3 ACRES Period grade II semi detached farmhouse with 3.28 acres. Located along a private drive with lovely south facing views across countryside to the Mendips. Two recep(on rooms, three bedrooms, beams and inglenooks, adjoining 2 roomed barn (pp to convert).

Large garden and parking. Ref: 23473

Guide Price £195,000

BURTLE Somerset FOR SALE BY (AUCTION UNLESS SOLD PRIOR) JULY 25TH 2017 A detached agricultural barn with planning for residen(al, located along a quiet country lane on the outskirts of the village and with open farmland in all direc(ons. PP for Three bedrooms, approx. 1500 sq internal accommoda(on. Paddock to rear. Available as a whole or in 2 lots. Ref: 24661/7

Guide Price £450,000 + VAT

Loxton Somerset FOR SALE BY (AUCTION UNLESS SOLD PRIOR) JULY 25TH 2017 A substan(al detached barn with accommoda(on over two floors amoun(ng to 2264 . Formerly a modern office with exposed beams and plenty of windows and doors with planning for residen(al use occupying a south facing loca(on up a private drive. Large gardens & paddock amoun(ng to 1.80 acres. EPC: C Ref: 24899

Guide Price £425,000

Hutton North Somerset COUNTRY LOVERS LOOKING FOR THE GOOD LIFE! Perfect se*ng in country lane – a detached three bedroom co)age with 6.91 acres. Co)age garden with adjoining woodland & paddocks. Far reaching westerly views to the coast and beyond.

EPC: F. Ref: 24014/1

Guide Price £375,000

Wrington Village COME AND VIEW THE SPACE AND QUALITY! Superb brand new ‘mews’ style house in the heart of the village.

Stunning and spacious interior of some 1500 sq . Three double bedrooms, large si*ng room, kitchen and dining room with superb fi*ngs, fully fi)ed u(lity, cloaks, bathroom and en suite. Garden and parking. Ref: 24751 EPC A

Wrington 01934 864300 MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2017 • PAGE 83

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UBLEY MOTOR SERVICES

Off for lunch

MG ROVER & LAND ROVER SPECIALIST

Sales – Service – Parts – Repairs ALL MAKES SERVICING – VEHICLE DIAGNOSTICS, AIR CONDITIONING, MECHANICAL & BODY REPAIRS Collection/Loan Car by arrangement

MOT TESTING STATION

A rose between two Porsches – a British MG sports car classic

MEMBERS of an informal classic car club from the Backwell area took to the roads around Mendip for a day out.

Backwell and District Classic Car Driving Enthusiasts stopped at Rookery Farm in Binegar for breakfast at Hartleys Café Bistro on their way to the Haynes Motor Museum at Sparkford.

COMPETITIVE PRICES ON TYRES, BATTERIES AND EXHAUSTS

ACCIDENT REPAIR CENTRE QUALITY USED CARS BREAKDOWN & RECOVERY SERVICE Your peace of mind is our priority

CLEEVE HILL, UBLEY BS40 6PG Telephone: 01761 462275 (24hrs) www.ubleymotors.co.uk

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MOTORING

Elegance on wheels

For servicing, repairs and sales of all makes of caravans and motorhomes

Bailey approved body shop and workshop

Swinging 70s? This 1978 VW camper was lovingly restored by Brian Price, of Downend in Bristol

MORE than 100 superb vehicles were on display at this year’s Concours d’Elegance at Strattonon-the-Fosse.

The third annual showcase of classic and vintage motors in the grounds of Downside Some of the 100-plus School cars on show ranged from Abbot’s Cup winner Andrew Triggol with his magnificent 1930 Rolls Royce 20/25 to head master James Whitehead’s favourite: a 1988 Mercedes 300SL convertible owned by Michael Carter.

● Caravan Servicing ● Annual Habitation Checks ● Alu-Tech Bailey Approved Repairers ● Warranty Maintained ● Damp Repairs ● Accident Repairs ● Insurance Repairs ● Accessory Fitting

Our shop stocks a full range of accessories and equipment

BEFORE

AFTER

Open Monday - Friday 9am–5pm; Saturday 9am–12 noon Approved

Downside head master James Whitehead casts his eye over a 2004 Ferrari 612

Marchants Hill, Gurney Slade BA3 4TY Call: 01749 841051 Mob: 07778 465520 Email: sales@caravanrepairs-sw.co.uk MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2017 • PAGE 85

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Going green pays dividends

SOLAR power generated more electricity than coal in the six months running up to the end of September 2016.

This is a massive achievement for an industry that has faced more than its fair share of negative policy decisions.

Despite this, solar is on the rise again thanks to reductions in solar panel prices globally over recent months.

Stephen Barrett, managing director of Solarsense, said: “Solar PV system prices are now 20-25% cheaper than in Installation at Clarks Village advice is to get in while you still can.

2015 meaning many businesses with Energy audits typically identify LED high energy demands are actually lighting and solar as the two best ways seeing better financial returns than before the last major Feed-in Tariff of reducing energy costs in a business.

(FIT) drop.”

Solarsense can now combine both as a While the main reason for installing a complete solution, which can be 100% solar PV system is the green electricity financed or offer a 15-20% return on it produces and savings on electricity capital. bills, there are additional payments for SMEs (small to medium sized businesses) may also qualify for the exporting power to the grid. The Green Business Grant of up to £10,000 government FIT pays the system owner but again these funds are limited. for every unit of electricity it produces Solarsense works with financial for 20 years. As this is due to end for service providers and community groups new applications in spring 2019, the

to offer a “free” system. Many schools and businesses in Somerset are already taking advantage of these solutions as they require zero capital investment, just the ability to have panels installed on site and then purchase the energy they produce at a discounted rate (typically saving 10-20%).

Stephen Barrett said: “The 80 kWp system at Clarks Village was around £200,000 to install in 2013 and would now only cost £65,000.” A reduction of 70% at a time when fossil fuel is increasingly less attractive.

Solarsense moves into zero carbon offices

Genera&ng three &mes more energy than it consumes, the building reduces company running costs and provides a regional demonstra&on centre for schools and SW businesses to visit.

EVENTS

Free Solar for Schools Open Day – Thur 15th June Talk on how solar power can benefit your school Brookside Academy free install talk by Maddy at ACE Q&A with tour of zero carbon office Commercial PV systems – Thur 29th June Talks on latest pricing and funding op&ons Carbon Trust grants up to £10k LED ligh&ng and solar PV returns

Private views/free consulta&ons available on request. www.solarsense-uk.com

For your free informa on pack or to book your place – Call: 01275 461800 E mail: info@solarsense-uk.com

PAGE 86 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2017

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HOMES & INTERIORS

FREE ESTIMATES • FULL INSTALLATION AND CAD DESIGN SERVICE 1,400 SQFT SHOWROOM WITH FULL DISPLAYS Open: Mon 12 noon – 5 p.m. Tues – Fri 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Sat 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Radstock Road, Midsomer Norton, Radstock BA3 2AD T: 01761 419114 • E: enquiries@firenzaltd.co.uk • W: www.firenzaltd.co.uk

MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2017 • PAGE 87

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Experience you can rely on

● FREE SURVEYS ● COMPETITIVE PRICES ● FRIENDLY, PROFESSIONAL ADVICE ● CAN MANAGE ALL YOUR BUILDING AND CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS ● PROJECT MANAGEMENT & GENERAL BUILDING AVAILABLE, SOLAR INSTALLER

COMMERCIAL & INDUSTRIAL ● Industrial cladding ● Warehouses ● Factory Units ● New Gulley Liners & Repair ● New Sky Lights ● Corrugated Light Panels (transluscent/ or transparent) DEVELOPMENT ● Rendering ● Tanking ● Damp Proofing ● Plastering ● Footings and Concrete work ● Patios & Decking DOMESTIC ● Tiling ● Velux Windows installation ● Loft Conversions ● UPVC Fascias and Guttering ● Chimney Work ● Single Ply Flat Roofing Systems ● High Performance Felt Roofing ● Lead Works (Heritage & Regulation) TNR Roofing & Property Development Parkstone Avenue Bridgwater Somerset TA6 6DN

Tel: 01278 444242 or 07727 191216 Email: tone@tnrroofing.co.uk Website: tnrroofing.co.uk

SOME of the staff at TNR have been in the trade for over 20 years and have worked with a range of clients from smaller jobs, like fitting a skylight or replacing a tile, to a range of full loft conversions, steel frame barn conversions, wrap-around extensions and commercial and domestic solar panel installation.

Based in Bridgwater and covering the whole of the South West, Wales and the Midlands, TNR provides clients with the full property development package to suit their budget and requirements.

They have been in operation since 2009, working with local residential clients along with large commercial businesses in central London, Oxford and more.

TNR can provide a project manager to co-ordinate larger projects, i.e. a loft conversion, extension etc. so you can be totally stress-free throughout the development.

With access to carpenters, plumbers, electricians, decorators and a variety of other tradesmen, TNR provide the right man for the right job, all included in one quotation, so you don’t have the worry of organising a multitude of tradesmen – TNR are the one-stop shop for property development.

• TREE WORK • CHIMNEY LINERS • ROOF TILES • LIGHTING • BIRD SPIKES & NEST REMOVALS • PAINTING • AERIALS • INSPECTIONS Installing a chimney liner

PAGE 88 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2017

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Telephone: 01761 417654 Facsimile: 01761 417207 email: office@techniglaze.co.uk www.techniglaze.co.uk

Page 89

HOMES & INTERIORS

Unit D, 1st Avenue, Westfield Industrial Estate, Midsomer Norton, Radstock BA3 4BS

Offering the complete service for over 30 years

ALUMINIUM DOORS, WINDOWS, CURTAIN WALL, ATRIUMS PVCU WINDOWS, DOORS AND CONSERVATORIES

BI-FOLDING DOORS • SUN ROOMS • HERITAGE PRODUCTS

MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2017 • PAGE 89

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HOMES & INTERIORS

Tony Hucker TV Service – Sales – Rental

• • • • • •

Satellite Installations Aerial Systems TV wall mounting Custom Installations Networking Signal Solutions

01275 332888 FAMILY BUSINESS BASED IN THE CHEW VALLEY FOR OVER 100 YEARS

www.tonyhuckertv.co.uk Email: tony@tonyhuckertv.co.uk Unit 4, Fairseat Workshops, Chew Stoke BS40 8XF Open: Mon – Thurs 9.00am – 6.00pm Fri – 9.00am – 5.30pm

MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2017 • PAGE 91

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THE WAY THEY’RE MEANT TO BE #R9journey • High Security • Thermal Efficient • Alterna&ve to Timber • Tradi&onal Hardware Ideal for Conserva&on Areas

40+ colour options available

www.residence9.co.uk

01275 342656 www.seal-lite.co.uk Unit 1, Tweed Road, Clevedon, North Somerset BS21 6RR PAGE 92 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2017

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A fresh approach to a new kitchen WHETHER you’re looking for a simple kitchen re-style or a full-on refit, Dream Doors in Congresbury can find the right solution for you.

Husband and wife team Colin and Camilla opened Dream Doors North Somerset in 2012 as part of the national Dream Doors franchise. They specialise in breathing new life into old kitchens and perfectly demonstrate that achieving your ideal kitchen can be easier than you think.

Many companies automatically come in and rip out your old kitchen and start from scratch. Dream Doors offer an alternative. If your layout works for you but the décor is looking a bit tired they can just replace your doors, worktops and appliances. This can usually be done in a few days and comes at a fraction of the cost of a complete refit.

If you do decide to go with a complete change then they can do that too – or anything in between. Maybe you’re happy with the majority of your layout but would like a few more cupboards or a kitchen island?

Dream Doors believe in listening to the customer and finding a solution that works for them – they won’t try to sell you what you don’t need. Just take a look at some of the fantastic independent reviews on www.checkatrade.com to know you’re in safe hands.

Camilla says: “Customers love our approach. We’re flexible, we listen and we offer a top quality product and firstclass workmanship. Everyone’s kitchen is individual so our doors are all made-to-measure and they are UK manufactured

HOMES & INTERIORS

and guaranteed for six years.

“We have many door colour/style combinations on offer and an extensive range of work surfaces such as wood, granite, laminate and solid surface along with top brand appliances, sinks and taps. Why not pop into our showroom and have a look around? You’ll be spoilt for choice.”

MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2017 • PAGE 93

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Sounds of summer at extravaganza GRAMMY Award-winning singer Corinne Bailey Rae is to make a sensational return to the Glastonbury Abbey Extravaganza, as the supporting act for this year’s event on Saturday, August 5th.

Corinne, who first appeared at the Extravaganza in 2007, has been described as the “Bewitching queen of British soul”. Bailey Rae's most recent album. The Heart Speaks in Whispers, was released last year to worldwide acclaim.

She will be joining Beach Boys cofounder Brian Wilson who will be playing The Beach Boys’ seminal album, Pet Sounds in full at the event.

Corinne said: “I am so thrilled to be able to support Brian Wilson at Glastonbury Abbey. The venue is a dream, I played there a few years ago with Van Morrison. I’ve always wanted to see Brian Wilson and it will be amazing to hear the whole of 'Pet Sounds' performed live.”

Organiser Michael Eavis said: “Corinne first performed at the Abbey just a year after she released her solo debut album and as soon as I first heard her music, I knew she was going somewhere. She will be competing with some of the best musicians in the world on the night, and I have no doubt she will hold her own. The line-up this year is so good for our 21st birthday and I’m really looking forward to the show.”

Also playing at the Extravaganza will be the world-famous brass band, the Black Dyke Band. The traditional firework display will round off the night.

For the third year, limited camping has also been made available for Extravaganza ticket holders by Michael a short distance from the abbey, with pitches starting at £20 for the weekend.

Pre-erected tents are also available.

Advance tickets cost the same as last year with adults £35 and £20 for a child aged six to 16. On the gate prices will

Corinne Bailey-Rae will be returning to the Glastonbury Extravaganza

be £40 and £25 for a child.

Accompanied children aged five and under do not require a ticket. Booking and postage fees apply. Terms and conditions apply.

To book tickets and camping, visit www.glastonburyabbey.com/extravaganza

Gospel choirs support RNLI

Village Voices Choir

WINSCOMBE and District RNLI branch will be hosting an evening of inspirational gospel music presented by the Joyful Spirit Gospel Choir and Village Voices Community Choir.

The concert will be held in Draycott Village Hall on

Friday June 9th at 7.30pm.

Joyful Spirit is a community gospel choir, made up of people aged between 18 and 100, from all walks of life and backgrounds with different musical capability.

Their emphasis is on making music together in an enjoyable atmosphere to the best of their ability, led enthusiastically by their musical director Alison Cooper-White, head of music at Churchill Academy.

Village Voices Community Choir started in September 2015, with a handful of members from Pilton who wished to improve their singing (and have a bit of fun in the process!).

A year and a half on and the choir has now grown considerably in both numbers and ability, drawing men and women from Pilton, Wells, Glastonbury, Street, Dulcote, Shepton Mallet and beyond, under musical director Emma Wheat.

PAGE 94 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2017

Details: Tickets £10, U-15 £5, available from meejlfh@gmail.com 01934 842304, committee members, choir members or on the door.

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Back on the road

MAGENTA, who are based in the Mendip area, first formed in 1978 and played their own brand of original, mainly acoustic music throughout the UK and abroad until disbanding in 1985.

Reunions in 2009 and 2011 proved popular and following several sold-out concerts in Weston-super-Mare and Cheddar last year, the five members of the band have been working on songs for a new album, some of which will be featured at two concerts to be held in June.

The first is on Saturday June 3rd at Weare Village Hall at 7.30pm. Tickets are available on 07970 100252 and proceeds will go to village hall funds.

The second concert is a return visit to Berrow Church, near Burnham on Sea on Friday June 16th, 7.30pm, where the unique acoustics provide a special atmosphere for the band’s music. Tickets are available on 07841 614597, with proceeds going to the fabric fund.

There are plans for more live dates later in the year to coincide with the release of the new album, which will be their fifth since their formation back in 1978.

Rocking the green

THIS year’s annual Music on the Green will be held on Brent Knoll village green on Saturday July 15th at 7.30pm.

Organisers say they are thrilled to welcome the Lipinski Band, who thoroughly entertained the village at last year’s harvest supper, with a wide repertoire of music from across the years.

Tickets are £10 each, with entrance for accompanied children under-14 free.

Details: Tickets from Brent Knoll Village Shop or ring 01278 760308 or 760986.

Summer music

SUMMER Nights is another eclectic selection of music being presented by Spectra Musica and musical director Peter Leech in St. Michael’s Church, North Cadbury on July 1st at 7.30pm.

Concert pianist Anita D’Attellis and a string quintet will be accompanying the group and Anita will also feature throughout the evening. Tickets are £12 from 01963 350160, on the door or at tickets@spectramusica.co.uk Details: www.spectramusica.co.uk

Drummer keeps the beat

MUSIC

VETERAN drummer Paul Brimble is back in the swing of things after suffering a stroke – and has found himself on the front page of a national magazine as a result.

Paul, of Midsomer Norton, is one of three stroke survivors whose stories are being used to inspire readers of the British Heart Foundation’s latest issue of Heart Matters.

Paul, aged 69, is Perfect timing – Paul Brimble is back leader of the popular drumming and working 60s cover band The Sneakers and still plays dozens of gigs each year across the South West. He has been playing drums since 1962.

On New Year’s Eve 2011, he was preparing for a gig when he felt unwell. His local chemist referred him to Paulton Hospital and he was then transferred to Bath’s Royal United Hospital where doctors diagnosed he had not only suffered a stroke but had an irregular heartbeat.

Now fitted with a pacemaker Paul, who still works as sales manager for Techniglaze, says he is feeling on fine form: “I was very down for a while because I couldn’t do anything and they couldn’t get my heart to beat regularly.

“Since having the pacemaker fitted, I am feeling very well.

As a result of the stroke I have no feeling in the palm of one hand but can still play the drums and spin a stick – although I do drop them occasionally, but I make a joke about that.”

Paul, who also attended a Slimming World course in Midsomer Norton and lost four stones after being diagnosed with diabetes, said: “I hope the stories in the heart foundation magazine will offer some inspiration to people going through the same The cover of Heart Matters, featuring Paul thing.”

Friday, June 9th will mark the British Heart Foundation’s Wear It Red Day to raise money for research. To find out more and to sign up for the Heart Matters magazine, visit: www.bhf.org.uk

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Please call us home

THE horse trots beautifully on the lunge. His body has lift and grace, powering past the arena mirrors that reflect his impressive movement.

I watch as he is captured in swift pencil strokes by racehorse artist Michelle McCullagh. “Put him on the other rein?”

With RACHEL someone asks. This is not so easy, after a life THOMPSON time of galloping round left handed race MBE courses.

The onlookers expect a resistant buck but he settles, trying hard, obedient to the trainer, no hint of injury now in the long powerful legs. The sanctuary’s work is done, Betchworth Kid is ready for his new career, dressage perhaps.

“Sanctuary” means “a place of refuge or rest, a place of peace, often a spiritual place, safe from danger”. We are at the North Brewham Racehorse Sanctuary and Re-homing Centre to celebrate the opening of the Peter O’Sullevan High Dependency Unit for horses needing extra care and time to recover from injuries of the mind, body or spirit. Where better than the pastoral peace of the Somerset countryside to provide a refuge for racehorses who have given their all?

Peter O’Sullevan – the “Voice of Racing” – famously called home so many magnificent winners. He also knew, better than most, the fall-out from the racing enjoyed by so many. Horses forgotten by uncaring former owners, abandoned in fields, injured, damaged or sent to the knacker man. In his retirement Sir Peter worked tirelessly to raise awareness of their plight and champion their cause.

His charitable trust representative, Nigel Payne, said: “The trustees always considered what Peter would have thought and we are all convinced he would totally approve (of the grant to this unit).”

I sit for a while next to sanctuary patron, media superstar and author Jilly Cooper OBE. At 80, she is glamourous and pretty with a naughty smile. “Thanks,” I say “for cheering me up through some difficult years, all those books made me howl with laughter.

Emily is reading her battered copy of Riders for the tenth time.”

Jilly grins and writes a note for Emily – treasured now at home in

Trust representative Nigel Payne chats with Jilly Cooper

PAGE 96 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2017

Jilly Cooper thanks the late Peter O’Sullevan as she cuts the ribbon to open the new sanctuary at North Brewham

a silver frame.

Earlier in the stable yard, the horses, long noble faces interested, watched as the blue ribbon cut with panache fluttered in the wind.

Guests and press raised a glass as patrons, trustees, owners, staff, volunteers and Wavertree Warrior posed for a photograph. Jilly, scissors in hand, gazed heavenward: “Lovely, lovely way to spend the money – I’m sure you are looking down on us and smiling Peter, thank you.” As we cheered, Baddalini, eyes brilliant in the sun, nodded his agreement.

I chat to co-founder Graham Oldfield – in a former life a driver in the Kings Troop Artillery, British Horse Society inspector, competitor and dressage judge. He and his partner and co-founder Sue Collins remain undaunted in the face of a veritable herd of fine thoroughbred horses falling out of the racing industry each year.

Surely Graham and Sue and their amazing team’s commitment and passion will continue to keep this cause to the forefront of equestrian concern so that we all recognise the value of a fulfilled second career for these beautiful and deserving animals. ● You can help by joining the supporters’ club, making a donation or volunteering some time. Visit: www.racehorsesanctuary.org phone 01483 275359 or email info@racehorsesanctuary.org – plus see racehorses from the sanctuary at the Mendip Bridleways and Byways major event on Saturday, June 17th (headlined by the sensational Wocket Woy and the Pwoducer, plus much, much more) at Kingfisher Indoor School, Lovington BA7 7PS. Tickets: www.mbba.org.uk 01749 831276.

Sanctuary volunteer Sam Moody, of Downhead, near Shepton Mallet, and chairman of the East Mendip Riding Association

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Top money on offer at Nunney

Wanted – one large pony

THE organisers of the Nunney International Horse Trials in June have announced that the winner of the prestigious Tarmac-sponsored CCI2* competition will receive £1,200 in prize money.

Upper limit prize money will also be in place for all classes at the event whose title sponsor is YMCA Mendip on behalf of host Mrs Angela Yeoman. Sponsors also include Roger Penny Plant Hire.

This year’s trials take place at Southfield House, between Nunney and Whatley on Friday, June 16th, Saturday, June 17th and Sunday, June 18th. The cross country for the CIC2* and intermediate classes is scheduled for Sunday starting at 10am, but there is action over the fixed fences on Friday, Saturday and Sunday with showjumping in the main arena in front of the house over all three days too.

Since the inaugural competition in 2012, it has grown in stature, attracting many of the sport’s most well-known names. Hundreds of visitors flock to the venue to enjoy watching the action, as well browsing the many tradestands and sampling food from an eclectic array of catering stands.

Organiser Bridget Parker said: “Nunney is a wonderful event that has become a firm favourite among competitors and spectators and we are delighted that Tarmac is supporting us by sponsoring the CIC2* class.” ● Admission to Friday’s competitive action is free to spectators and £12 per car on Saturday and Sunday. YMCA Mendip will also be fundraising at the event with a raffle, with the top prize a holiday in the Scottish Highlands on the Kingairloch Estate. Visit www.nunneyhorsetrials.co.uk for more details.

RIDING

WHEELCHAIR-bound carriage-drivers in Somerset are eager to find a big, calm pony that could help to transform their lives.

Somerset Levels RDA Carriage Driving Group needs a pony (14 hands plus) and is appealing for help in finding one.

Group chair, Caroline Sturgess, said: "Until a few years ago, we had three RDA trained ponies, including a large pony that could be driven by some of our larger wheelchair clients.

"Since then, our mid-sized pony has retired and our large pony has returned to its owner. My own Dartmoor pony is our fourth RDA assessed pony, but he is too small to pull our specially adapted carriage for larger wheelchair clients."

This means that the group, which already had a waiting list of disabled people wanting to benefit from its services, is currently unable to provide therapeutic driving sessions for a number of wheelchair clients who were already getting that benefit.

Caroline said: “A perfect example is John, a former cavalryman, who suffered a massive stroke that left him unable to speak and bound to his wheelchair. His weekly session of driving our big pony from his wheelchair made a huge difference to his life.”

Somerset Levels RDA Carriage Driving Group operates two sessions per week, on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Details: http://somersetlevelsrda.org/

A caring environment ESTABLISHED in 2000, JB Equestrian Services, managed

by Julia Bodman, has evolved with customer requirements – offering every type of horse management from specialised box rest/rehabilitation through part and full liveries to schooling/training horses and riders in all three disciplines and building solid partnerships.

Julia said: “Serious about your horse – so are we! JB equestrian offers honest, value for money, knowledgable care for both you and your horse – we are not fancy but provide top individual care for each partnership. There are

vacancies available to join our caring environment and quality tuition on your own horse is available.”

J.B. Equestrian Services

Livery, Schooling, Instruction Facilities for Hire

Liveries – part and full, including schooling/problem solving, holiday and producing for comp/sale.

Pre-race fittening.

Lessons available with your own horse.

Regular dressage and Showjumping competitions.

Tel: 07889 065301 01275 892629

Email: j.bodman@btconnect.com

The Stables, Maesknoll Farm, Norton Lane, Pensford, Bristol BS39 4EZ

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RIDING

Realise your competition dreams with Collective Equestrian

COLLECTIVE Equestrian, at Moorledge Lane, Chew Magna is a brand new breed of equestrian training and livery centre offering not just superb facilities but also a unique collaborative environment that allows riders and owners to benefit from being part of a genuine collective.

Set up by Grand Prix dressage rider Jonny Clarke-West, the centre boasts access to excellent tuition from three highly accomplished trainers, with guidance and advice readily available to help everyone achieve their specific riding goals within a friendly, non-exclusive and totally supportive setting.

While the centre has all the qualities that will attract top riders, there is no trace of a cliquey atmosphere, in fact key to this private yard’s success is its ability to successfully combine an occasional Jonny Clarke-West – Grand Prix rider

Elizabeth Allen – BHSII & UKCC3 qualified

invitation to the local pony club, with the provision of livery and training for the committed Badminton rider; or senior level tuition to hone your skills on your own horse together with access to a gentle school mistress suited to the more novice rider.

Lead riders and trainers Elizabeth Allen and Alex Harrison both hold impressive CVs when it comes to their previous experience and qualifications. Elizabeth is currently working towards her BHSI after already gaining her UKCC3 and BHSII qualifications including the Senior Equitation and Stable Manager exams.

Perfect your test riding with Alex, who recently qualified as a List 4 judge as well as being a BD Accredited trainer and also holding his UKCC3 qualification.

The impressive facilities at Collective Equestrian include indoor and outdoor arenas; 33 stables with rubber matting flooring in an American barn format; an impressive 50 acres of turnout; fantastic hacking within the 100-acre site; wash-down bay; horse walker and a club room.

Alex Harrison – BD accredited trainer, UKCC3 and List 4 Judge

Details: Contact the team now for livery and training enquiries: www.collectiveequestrian.co.uk PAGE 98 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2017

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SPORT

A helping hand from bike workshops

THERE is no doubt that cycling is good for your health and well-being, but what sometimes gets overlooked is maintenance of the CYCLING bike. If it’s not kept in with EDMUND good condition then LODITE it’s likely that the ride will either be uncomfortable or more difficult, maybe even both.

Some of the basics, such as keeping the chain clean and well lubricated are relatively straightforward. However as bike technology advances, fiddling around with expensive gear-changing mechanisms can sometimes be unproductive, so a bike workshop is the best option.

One of the more interesting and innovative workshops is Julian House. This charitable social enterprise has bike workshops in nearby Bath, Bristol and Trowbridge and offers high-quality refurbished bikes and servicing.

In addition they also help the more disadvantaged people in society by giving them the opportunity to gain job skills and specialist training on bike maintenance. All profits are either re-invested into the business or used to provide services in line with the aims of the charity.

Chew Stoke resident David McDonald is chair of the social enterprise arm of the Julian House charity and also a keen cyclist. To publicise the opening of a new workshop he and several like-minded amateur cyclists took part in a 120-mile bike ride.

Calling in at the existing workshops they headed south across Mendip and Somerset before arriving at the new workshop in Exeter. As you’d expect from well-

maintained bikes, the ride went smoothly and no punctures!

David explained that Julian House has been supporting some of the most marginalised members of society for 30 years. One of the interesting ways they do this is the Build-a-Bike course, a hands-on course that teaches all the skills needed to safely maintain a bike.

Participants work with a workshop mechanic to fully dismantle a bike and rebuild it from its component parts. Oneto-one support is available to make sure that people get the most out of their time on the course. This is aimed at improving confidence and once the six-week course is completed, they get to keep the bike.

Esther Passingham, the charity’s social enterprise operations manager, said: “Our

N ew s ki p p e r i s m a n o f t h e m a t c h

NICK Pang made his debut as captain of Midsomer Norton Cricket Club’s 1st XI and not only left his side to victory but was named man of the match.

Norton bowled out visitors Knowle CC for Norton start to pile on the runs 160 at Withies Lane – with Nick taking 1-21 in his 10 overs – before helping bat the home side to a five-wicket victory.

original bike workshop started out in a very modest way – a few bikes were renovated in the back yard of our offices. It was something that the clients enjoyed and where possible we allowed them to take the machine away – very empowering when you are at the bottom of society’s pile.

“From there it developed into a business which now gives lots of clients valuable work experience.”

It’s well known that cyclists will always stop and help another cyclist in trouble. With Julian House bike workshops this altruistic approach also extends to helping those that need it most in society. Something as straightforward as a bike can do more good than many people realise!

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To th e manor born

By Mark Adler

A GROUP of horse racing friends from Mendip who formed their own syndicate were all smiles after their horse won a race sponsored by the Royal Bath and West Show Society.

San Satiro, owned by the Manor Syndicate, trained by Paul Nicholls and ridden by Harry Cobden, finished strongly to take the handicap hurdle race at Wincanton.

Roger Eddy, Bob Thornton, John Jackson and Nick Barber were joined by friends and family in the celebrations in the winner’s enclosure. The one and a quarter lengths victory was San Satiro’s third win in six weeks.

Sophia Orttewell and Paul Hooper, from the show society, present the prizes to the winning connections of San Satiro

Nicholls trained two other winners on the day – Dreamcatching and Capitaine – but Bistouri D’Honore was pulled up in the first-ever running of the McCreery Memorial Military Amateur Riders’ race.

It was being ridden by Captain Guy

Charlotte Hawkins, of Bruton (centre), was celebrating her 50th birthday with friends and family

It was literally a two-horse race, but Stealing Mix (left), trained by Neil Mulholland of Limpley Stoke, was pipped to the post by Dreamcatching, ridden by Stan Sheppard PAGE 100 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2017

Disney, who made history earlier this year by becoming the first amputee jockey to win at a professional racecourse in Britain. The 34-year-old former soldier rides with a prosthetic leg.

Hen party! The fixture was held on St George’s Day and bride-to-be Dianne Robson (centre) and friends were flying the flag

Ditcheat trainer Paul Nicholls comes face-to-face with Dylan the Dolphin, the Poole Town FC mascot and winner of the charity mascot race

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SPORT

Tennis day is a big hit

A DAY of free activities attracted dozens of families to Wells Tennis Club.

Once again, the club teamed up with BTEC students at The Blue School who helped to design and organise events as part of their studies.

All five courts and two mini courts were packed with fun events for youngsters to free coaching sessions.

Now the club has been has been shortlisted in the Somerset Activity and Sports Partnership annual awards – for coach of the year and club of the year. The awards recognise the achievements and successes of outstanding athletes, inspirational volunteers, great coaches and quality clubs and organisations from across Somerset. The awards evening will be held on Friday, June 16th. ● In the summer WTC will be taking part in the Lawn Tennis Association’s Great British Tennis Weekend which encourages clubs to open their doors to the public. The event in Wells will be held on Saturday, July 22nd.

BTEC students with Dave Mills (men's captain), Kevin Durney (coach) and Ruth Angelinetta (social secretary)

Wells coach Kevin Durney offers some advice

Louis, aged four, gets to grip with a racquet … … but has more fun with a trolley full of tennis balls

Decorating tennis balls was just one of the activities thought up by the students

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Practice makes perfect Photos by Mark Adler

Olympian takes the plunge

Full throttle – it might have been a practice day but the riders were intent on testing their skills to the limit

SOME of the scenes at Leighton, near Frome, when motocross enthusiasts gathered for a practice day on two wheels, three and four!

The Asham Wood course has been hosting regular race days for almost 80 years, but this was a chance for riders of bikes, sidecars and quads to hone their skills on the challenging circuit. The day was organised by the Frome and District Motorcycle Club and attracted riders of all ages.

Four wheels flying

James (in tracksuit) with (back l:r) trustee Stuart Dowden, trust secretary Mike Stitfall and Richard Clark and front (l:r) trustee Laura Zaky, pool manager David Mogg and trustee Ellie Gould

OLYMPIC medal-winning swimmer James Guy was amongst the guests at the start of celebrations to mark the 80th anniversary of the Greenbank open air swimming pool in Street.

James, aged 21, made his Olympic Games debut in Rio 2016 and claimed silvers in both the men's 4x200m freestyle and 4x100m medley relays, both in British record time.

The former Millfield School pupil, currently based at the University of Bath, found time for two lengths of the Greenbank pool, which opened for the summer season on Saturday, April 29th.

Money for the pool was provided

by Alice Clark, of the Clark’s shoe dynasty, who intended that it should James prepares to be used primarily by women; men make a splash would swim in the River Brue. Alice was a women’s rights campaigner.

Today the pool is run by a trust whose members include Street parish councilors.

Sidecar racing pushes rider and passenger to the limit

Richard Clark cuts the ribbon to start the celebrations as James looks on

A community fun day will be held at the pool on Saturday, July 1st as part of the celebrations.

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Squash champions

Pictured (l to r) Ricardo Paredes, Brian Pate, John Thompson and Richard Nichol

CHEW Valley Squash Club’s annual tournament finals night saw Richard Nichol win the Gadsden Handicap, Ricardo Paredes win the Boucher Plate and John Thompson win the Boucher Cup. In getting to the Gadsden Handicap final, neither Rich (no. 1 seed) or Ricardo (no. 7 seed) dropped a single set against their opponents. Rich made his way past Paul Pearson, Andrew Fountain and Alan Lade to secure his place in the final while Ricardo took on Gareth Thomas, Dan Spinney and Ian Bishop.

The second final of the night was the Boucher Plate between Ricardo Paredes (no. 1 seed) and Brian Pate (no. 3 seed) – Ricardo again didn’t drop a set on his way to the final, knocking out Andrew Fountain and Paul Pearson, while Brian had a slightly tougher time – after his first round against Sam Hume, it took a five-set cliff-hanger to get past Iain Locke.

When it came to the crunch, Ricardo had enough in the tank to come back from a 1-2 deficit to beat Brian 3-2 (9-2, 8-10, 7-9, 95, 9-5) – another cracking game.

The final big ticket event was the Boucher Cup between John Thompson (no. 1 seed) and Richard Nichol (no. 6 seed) – John had only dropped one set on his way to the final, knocking out Andrew Fountain, Simon Chubb (who took that set) and Joey Williams, whilst again Rich didn’t drop a single set on his way past Ricardo Paredes, Dan Spinney and Mark Simmons.

With Andy Matthews as the scorer, John managed to take the title 3-0 (9-4, 9-0, 10-8) against Rich – a tough game when you’ve already got one final in your legs – well done John!

In memory of Daren

WELLS player Ross Padfield and Wells City Football Club chairman Steve Loxton have unveiled a commemorative plaque in memory of Ross’s father Daren in the goal area at the ground.

Daren, who was a well-respected former player and youth coach at the club, was tragically killed in April last year after being hit by a car.

The plaque is one of two sited by the new goalposts at the ground funded by memorial donations raised for Daren.

SPORT

Frome girls are champions

FROME College U16 Girls' football team have been crowned England's champions 2017 after winning the English Schools Football Association final in Manchester.

They beat reigning champions, Thomas Telford School, from Shropshire, 4-3 in a very tense, fast-paced and high scoring match which saw 2-2 at half time. Goal scorers were Katie Minty, Ellie Strippel, and Chloe Gilroy two. Chloe was also named player of the match.

The competition started last September, with 226 teams entering the cup competition. There were eight rounds in total including the final. The initial rounds were based on a more local catchment area but this became more regional as the rounds progressed.

Matt Howlett, Head of Faculty for PE said: “The school and local community came together to support the team. Our thanks go out to their team manager Kezia Fowler, the whole school, community, local football clubs and family members for their help and support getting to the final and on the day.

“Well done to the whole team for an outstanding achievement!”

If you were unable to attend the match or missed it on the live streaming, you can catch up with the action by following this link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HEeNa9WT1Gg The team went on to win the Somerset County Cup Championship for the fourth year in a row, beating Worle School 5-0 at Wincanton FC.

Rebels ring the changes

THREE speedway riders have lost their places in the Somerset Rebels team after a poor start to their debut season in the top flight.

Management reacted to three home defeats and a 34-point drubbing away to Wolverhampton by releasing Rohan Tungate, Paul Starke and Jan Graversen. Team manager Garry May said: “It is never nice to tell riders that they are being released, but we had to do something quickly while we still had the chance in order to try and turn our season around.

“For whatever reason, things just haven’t happened for Rohan and Paul, and while Jan has steadily improved as the season has progressed I just felt that we needed greater consistency at reserve so that there was less pressure on Jake Allen.”

“Both Rohan and Paul have been great servants of the Rebels, none more so than last season when we won the league championship, but I have to do what I think is best for the club before it gets too late.”

In have come Richard Lawson (Glasgow Tigers), Lewis Kerr (an injury replacement at Poole) and Cameron Heeps (Ipswich).

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Chew lose in play-off final TWO late tries were not enough to prevent Chew Valley RFC going down 12-29 to Cullumpton RFC in a winnertakes-all promotion match.

Hundreds of spectators packed the ground as Chew, who finished second behind Keynsham in the Tribute Western Counties North league, took on the Devon side from Western Counties West.

But it will be Cullompton playing next season in South West 1 West.

Centre JJ Wring scored Chew’s first try with the other by flanker Luke Sparkes Browne with full back Tom Bryan converting the second one.

Cheering on Chew

Bloodied, but unbowed: Chew had enjoyed a rousing finale to the regular season

The opening exchanges were close but Cullompton (in red and black) were too strong

There were record takings at the bar with an estimated crowd of 700 for the final

The scrums were a key battleground PAGE 104 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2017

Chew on the attack

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Chew's first try The victorious Cullompton team

Family fortunes

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SPORT

Chew finally break through to score a second try

HISTORY was made when Clevedon RFC took on Newbury in a play-off final as a dad played alongside his two sons for the North Somerset visitors.

Prop Neil Tucker, aged 45 and playing his last game for Clevedon, was joined on the pitch by Joey and Charlie in front of 1,000 spectators. Neil is Clevedon club secretary and a director. Charlie scored a try on his first start for the First XV. Despite scoring three tries to Newbury’s single effort, the visitors – runners-up in Tribute South West 1 West – lost 25-22. Weston-super-Mare won the league which also saw Midsomer Norton relegated. Newbury will join Weston in the National 3 South West league.

Norton (in red) against Newent in their last game of the season

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SPORT

Channel challenge

Jolly hockey players

(l:r): Katie Waters, Bobby Clark, Charlie Cook, Matthew Chillingworth, Sophie Chillingworth and Jess Hudson. Each must swim for an hour during the relay; they are not to touch anyone else or the boat during that time

FROME Ladies Hockey Club’s 2nds have been crowned champions of the Wessex 3rd Division after an unplanned relegation last season.

With a massive 19 points lead on their closest rivals, West Wilts, Frome 2nds scored an impressive 120 goals throughout the season only conceding six as they powered their way through the rest of the teams. After a very successful season the club held their AGM and end of season dinner, where awards were presented by chairman Andy Nicholson and club captain Karen Moore to: Verity Bake as the most improved player; Betty Restorick Under18s player of the year; Emily Oakley club person of the year; Peta Henley, club women; players’ players, 1s Grace Rudlin, 2s Juliet Bath, 3s Imy Piper.

Frome Ladies Hockey Club has been in existence for over 100 years and currently operates three ladies’ teams. Training on a Thursday evening, the club welcomes players of all standards, age and experience and are able to offer high standard and competitive hockey or recreational and social hockey through these teams.

A JUNIOR relay team of six swimmers from Street and District Swimming Club are in training to attempt to cross the English Channel in aid of the Make-a-Wish Foundation.

Training started in February and takes place every weekend, starting in Clevedon Lake but now off Weymouth. The swimmers – aged between 14 and 16 – are planning their attempt for some time between July 12th and July 19th, depending upon weather conditions. ● The team – under the guidance of coach and swim relay veteran Kat Percival – has already raised £1,000 but would welcome more support.

For details, visit: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/ichthyosaurswim

Wrington international!

TUG of War champions, Felton Eccles, will celebrate their 70th anniversary in style with an international competition on the weekend of Saturday 27th and Sunday May 28th at Wrington Sports and Social Club. Felton Eccles is one of the longest established and most successful teams in the world and has travelled extensively. Teams from the club have been English, United Kingdom, European and World Champions.

The event will feature more than 20 teams from England and more than a dozen from Ireland, Wales, Scotland and Holland.

The Tug of War association is currently trying to get the sport back into the Olympics.

Pitch in on sports facilities

SPORTS clubs, schools and residents are amongst the groups being invited to have their say on the future provision of playing pitches in South Somerset.

Consultation for the draft South Somerset Playing Pitch Strategy (PPS) has now begun and interested parties have until Monday, June 12th to respond. The PPS is used to ensure that outdoor playing pitches meet the local needs of existing and future residents within South Somerset until 2028.

Lynda Pincombe, community health and leisure manager at South Somerset District Council said: “We urge everyone interested to go online to view the draft version of our

The award winners

Frome Seconds

Details: tatwestbrook@hotmail.co.uk

strategy. The PPS is based on Sport England’s ‘Playing Pitch Strategy Guidance’ and much of the content is informed by our targeted consultation with local stakeholders.

“In particular, the strategy focuses on the provision of football, rugby union, cricket and hockey pitches so we hope to have responses from as many local clubs as possible. This document can be used to support funding applications to improve the quality and quantity of accessible provision so it is important that clubs and other interested parties have their say on the future priorities for the district.”

To view the draft strategy and to give feedback visit: www.southsomerset.gov.uk/pps

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WHAT’S ON

Show of strength in Shepton Mallet THIS year’s Mid-Somerset Show promises to be one of the most action-packed for years with something to delight all the family, say organisers.

The free-to-enter (for pedestrians) oneday event is continuing to build on its status as a showcase event for livestock, equestrian, cheese, cider, arts and crafts and entertainment.

The show takes place on Sunday, August 20th at Shepton Mallet. Main ring attractions will include the remarkable horseback display falconer Jonathan Marshall who combines all the drama and tension of dressage with majestic birds of prey.

And birds of another kind will also be on show – organisers have confirmed that poultry classes will take place after restrictions caused by an outbreak of avian flu were lifted in May. The show continues to evolve and new in the Arts and Crafts marquee this year will be classes for children with special educational needs, being organised by the

Mendip Autistic Group. But familiar favourites will also be there, from the vintage vehicle field to the dog show.

This year’s show president is Peter Barkwill, chief executive of quarry company Wainwright and Co, of Stoke St Michael, who said: “It’s a great honour to serve as president of the Mid-Somerset Agricultural Society this year. I have an abiding enthusiasm for the countryside and a deep love of our local landscape. Allied to my interest in sustainability and community flourishing, this is an organisation with which I’m proud to be associated.”

Wainwright will be hosting one of the area’s social highlights – the Mid-Somerset Show Summer Social party, on Thursday, June 8th. The event – open to both show society members and guests – will be held at the Somerset Earth Science Centre. Peter added: “We’re delighted to welcome members of the committee and their guests. We will have a marquee on our lawn, with a beautiful view of the lake. It

Lilly Clothier, of Chewton Mendip. For 2017, showjumping will take place in The Errington Young Ring next to the Haskins Field. Grandstand seating is planned for the south side of the arena

feels like a fitting context as we come together and look forward to this wonderful event.” ● Car parking charges of £10 per car apply for the Mid-Somerset Show. Tickets for the show social – with music by the everpopular Grey Dogs jazz band – are now on sale at £17. For details, visit: www.midsomersetshow.org.uk

For show details, visit: www.midsomersetshow.org.uk

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Living heritage at museum THE re-opening of the Somerset Rural Life Museum in Glastonbury on Saturday, June 3rd will be a celebration of the county’s heritage.

Visitor are invited to join the South West Heritage Trust for opening day at the refurbished museum, which tells the rich story of Somerset’s rural and social history. The day will begin with an opening ceremony at 11am which will mark 100 years since George and Louisa Mapstone took the tenancy of Abbey Farm in 1917.

Their granddaughter, Margaret Shreeve, who grew up on the farm, will be part of the opening ceremony. She will be joined by children from Elmhurst Junior School in Street. Based on Margaret’s recollections of farm life, the children have created a painting which is on permanent display in the museum.

Following the ceremony, the museum will be open for the first visitors to explore the new galleries in the farmhouse and former cowsheds, as well as to see the farmyard, the orchard and the magnificent 14th-century Abbey

Barn. There will be traditional village games, music, and local food to enjoy.

Families can discover the history of the farm on a fun trail around the site.

Visitors will also be able to enjoy the museum’s first exhibition, “FARM”, a collection of paintings and drawings by local artist Kate Lynch who will be there on the day.

The museum is re-opening following completion of a £2.4 million redevelopment project led by the trust, a charity supported by both Somerset and Devon county councils. Visitors will be able to explore rural life from the 1800s onwards and discover more about the county’s heritage including its landscape, food and farming, working life and rural crafts.

To mark the opening weekend the trust is offering special free admission on Saturday, June 3rd and Sunday, June 4th.

The museum, on Chilkwell Street, will be open from 11am on Saturday and 10am on Sunday and closes at 5pm.

The redevelopment project was chiefly funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund,

Chilkwell Street, Glastonbury, BA6 8DB. Summer opening Tues – Sun 10.00 am – 5.00 pm. (11.00 am Sat, 3 June) Admission including Gi Aid £6.00 adult/£4.95 concessions/£2.75 child (under 18s)/under 5s free. CHARITY NO. 1158791

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The Mapstone family at Abbey Farm

Viridor Credits Environmental Company, Somerset County Council, the Garfield Weston Foundation and other generous funders. The trust is also grateful to Somerset Building Preservation Trust and the Friends of the Somerset Rural Life Museum for their consistent support.

Building work was undertaken by Ken Biggs Contractors Ltd. The South West Heritage Trust is a charity supported by Somerset and Devon county councils and other generous funders.

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Air show celebrates 70 years THE Royal Naval Air Station Yeovilton International Air Day will celebrate its 70th anniversary on Saturday July 8th with 40,000 visitors expected through the gates.

Since 1947 it has grown to become one of the South West’s largest oneday events, offering an action-packed day out for all the family with thrilling flying displays and amazing ground attractions.

The award-winning show has over five hours of flying displays and pyrotechnics, featuring fast jets, historic warbirds, helicopters and formation display teams.

Leading the display will be rare naval heritage aircraft such as the Sea Vixen, Swordfish and Sea Fury. Their modern-day counterparts will perform spectacular role demonstrations to reflect the contribution made by naval aviation to protect our nation’s interests.

Air show favourites from the RAF –

the Red Arrows, Typhoon and Battle of Britain Memorial Flight – will also be there, as well as some foreign display teams.

Throughout the day, families will have the chance to enjoy plenty of ground entertainment including discounted entry to the Fleet Air Arm Museum, interactive military displays,

Pitts S-2S Muscle Biplane

an engineering fair, performances from military bands, classic and military vehicle exhibitions, funfair, simulators, helicopter pleasure flights, trade stalls and much, much more!

Whether you’re a wide-eyed first timer or a seasoned air show veteran, be prepared for a wonderful day out!

(Photograph courtesy of Paul Johnson)

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Details: www.royalnavy.mod.uk/yeovilton-airday

I N T E R N AT I O N A L A I R D AY C O M P E T I T I O N

MENDIP Times has teamed up with the organisers of the Royal Naval Air Station Yeovilton International Air Day to give readers the chance to win one of three pairs of tickets to the event on Saturday July 8th. Just answer this question: in which year was the show first held?

Answers on a postcard to Yeovilton Air Day Competition, Mendip Times, Coombe Lodge, Blagdon BS40 7RG to reach us by May 15th. The first three correct answers drawn will win the tickets. The editor’s decision is final.

Princes Road, Wells, BA5 1TD

Starts Friday 26th May Starts Friday 1st June Starts Friday 9th June

EVENT CINEMA FOR JUNE

NOW SHOWING:

Pirates Of The Caribbean: Salazar's Revenge (12A) 3D/2D Diary Of A Wimpy Kid: The Long Haul (U) Wonder Woman (cert tbc) 3D/2D The Mummy (cert tbc) 3D/2D • My Cousin Rachel (cert tbc) Wednesday 7th Ashton Triple Bill ROH 7.15 Friday 9th Take That Wonderland Live From The 02 Saturday 10th Peter Pan NT 1.30

● Book in person ● Online 24/7 @www.wellsfilmcentre.co.uk ● Over the ’phone: 01749 673195

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Space art in Wells

WELLS and Mendip Astronomers are hosting a second exhibition of astronomical art at Wells and Mendip Museum from June 10th-24th, in conjunction with the International Association of Astronomical Artists and the British Interplanetary Society, following the success of their first show in November 2015.

It promises to be a high profile event, not only featuring works by the top artists from the UK, including David A. Hardy, Britain's most eminent space artist and sci-fi illustrator, and the USA, but also spacecraft models from BBC's Sky at Night by Mat Irvine.

The exhibition will be open daily to the public from 10am–5pm, closed Sundays and entry is free.

Details: www.wellsastronomers.org.uk

Folk on the farm

Kevin Brown will be appearing with his band

A NEW one-day folk festival is to be held near Timsbury on Saturday, July 1st.

The first Radford Folk Festival will feature a mix of Somerset-based musicians and some from further afield, all playing under the roof of a large marquee.

It promises to be an unconventional event with the emphasis on “alternative” folk from musicians including

guitarist Darren Hodge, from Taunton, the Bath-based Kevin Brown Band, Declan Miller, from Glastonbury, Lost in the Grass – also from Glastonbury – and local duo Peas in the Pub. They will be joined by Celtic folk band Vervain, from North Somerset, and Irish altfolk act Driftwood.

The festival will be held in the grounds of Radford Mill Farm, a 112-acre organic farm by the Cam Brook and overnight camping is available.

Organiser Patrick O’Brien – one half of Peas in the Pub – said: “The farm has hosted a successful blues festival and will be doing so again in the summer, but we thought this would offer something new for music fans in the area.”

Early bird tickets are now available. Call 01761 479391 or visit: www.radfordmillfarm.co.uk

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Youth with a future

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MENDIP charity Youth With A Future is holding a fundraising premiere evening of the new Wonder Woman film on Friday, June 2nd at Wells Film Centre.

YWAF is encouraging people to come along dressed as their favourite superhero (optional of course!) and there will be a prize for the best costume!

YWAF supports young people aged 16-25 living in the area who are homeless or threatened with homelessness and primarily works alongside Mendip YMCA, providing a moving-in grant of up to £80 for each young person moving into rooms in the YMCA supported housing schemes or their own flats to buy essentials such as cooking equipment, bedding and crockery. YWAF also supports young people who have had a difficult start in life with grants to support their education, training and employment opportunities. ● Tickets for the film (cert 12a) are £12.50 and include a glass of wine or a soft drink. Doors open at 6.30pm for a 7.30pm start. To reserve a ticket, like the YWAF Somerset Facebook page and private message them, or email them through their website www.ywaf.org.uk or get tickets at Wells Film Centre.

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M e n d i p

Please send entries for these listings as a single paragraph of approximately 25 words. We’re happy to list entries for charities and voluntary groups free of charge – but please submit them in the format below. Commercial entries cost £25.

Tuesday May 23rd Open Evening for the SPA Singles Social Group, from 8pm at Tramways Social Club, West Street, Wells, BA5 2HN, free car park next to club, come and meet us and have a chat, we are a friendly group of people over 40 years old who enjoy organised events.

Details: Jackie 01458 840958 or Anne 01934 743139.

Congresbury Over-60s Club, Elizabeth and Jack Griffiths will give a talk entitled ‘Our Yacht Pudica and her travels to the Med’, Congresbury War Memorial Hall, 2.30-4pm. Details: 01934 832004.

Thursday May 25th West Mendip Walkers leisurely circular walk 11.3km from Clifton Suspension Bridge, OS Map 154 ST565732, start 1pm. Details: Tony Strange Tel 01934 733783 or anthonyestrange@gmail.com Friday May 26th Rex the King presented by the Wassail Theatre Company, the Theatre Shop, Clevedon, 7.30pm.

Details: wassailtheatre.co.uk/rex-the-king Street dance classes in Claverham village hall, 7pm – 8.30pm, 8-15-year-olds, entry £4. Details: Jean 01934 838017.

Saturday May 27th Mendip Society walk, East Harptree, meet in the car park in East Harptree Woods, Smithams Hill, East Harptree (BS40 6DA) ST 558 541. Details: Clive 01275 848052.

Taize and Teas, St Michael’s Church, Tower Hill, Stoke St Michael, BA3 5GT, either enjoy singing wonderful chants from Taize’ or just sit, relax and listen in our peaceful church, teas, coffee and biscuits provided, no charge but donations to the church funds are always welcome, 4pm. Details: Janet 01749 840409.

Monday May 29th Annual Duck Race Cheddar Vale Lions Club, Cheddar Gorge, first race 2pm, tickets £1 in aid of Children’s Hospice South West.

Bishop’s Palace, Wells, Nature’s Ninjas, activities in the palace gardens. Details: www.bishopspalace.org.uk 01749 988111.

Congresbury Book Sale, War Memorial Hall, good quality books, jigsaw puzzles, dvds, cds and talking books, 9am – 1pm.

Wednesday May 31st – Saturday June 3rd Royal Bath and West Show – see page 12.

Wednesday May 31st Mendip Society talk on the restoration of historical wildlife ponds on Mendip, with Trevor Beebee of the Reptile and Amphibian Group for Somerset, 2.30pm, Wells and Mendip Museum. Details: Richard Frost 01275 472797.

Backwell and Nailsea Macular Support talk on the work of REMAP, Backwell WI hall, 1.30pm. Details: Sheila, 01275 462107.

Thursday June 1st West Mendip Walkers moderate 10-mile circular walk from West Hatch, OS Map Ex128. ST285210, start 10am, park near church. Details: Tony Strange 01934 733783/07976902706 or anthonyestrange@gmail.com A Dementia Friends session by Alan Richardson.

“Learn about dementia... and the small things you can do to make a difference.” Hosted by Draycott and Rodney Stoke WI. Draycott Memorial Hall. Doors open 7pm for 7.30pm start. All welcome. Free.

Friday June 2nd Redhill Village Club Open Mic Night from 8pm – hosted by Jerry Blythe, starting at 8pm, join us and unwind with an evening of live music, acoustic PAGE 112 • MENDIP TIMES • JUNE 2017

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singer-songwriters at their very best. Details: Jerry on 07900 587646.

Charity film evening, Wells Film Centre, Wonder Woman (cert 12A) in aid of Youth With a Future, tickets £12.50 inc glass of wine or soft drink, doors open 6.30pm for 7.30pm start, go dressed as your favourite superhero. Details: www.ywaf.org.uk Bishop’s Palace, Wells Family Fun Friday creepy crawlies. Details: www.bishopspalace.org.uk 01749 988111.

Saturday June 3rd and Sunday June 4th Portishead in Bloom’s Annual Open Gardens weekend 10.30am – 5pm each day, 15 local and varied gardens will be open with all-day refreshments, Willa’s ironwork, plant sales, charity stalls etc. price £5, children free. Details: www.portisheadinbloom.org.uk Saturday June 3rd Mendip Society walk, Sladers Leigh and Wavering Down, meet at 2pm behind the Woodborough Inn BS25 1HD ST421 576. Details: John 01934 842868.

Fine Art Landscape Photography Exhibition, 10am – 5pm, at The Cellar, Paulton Methodist Church, BS39 7QQ, an exhibition by up-and-coming Bath University student, free entry with collection for Dorothy House Hospice.

Tuesday June 6th Congresbury Over-60s Club entertainment will be provided by Perry – songs and keyboard, Congresbury War Memorial Hall, 2.30-4pm. Details: 01934 832004.

Thursday June 8th West Mendip Walkers leisurely 5-mile circular walk from Wells Leisure Centre, OS Map Ex141 ST536462, start 1.30pm, park at leisure centre.

Details: Ken Masters 01749 670349/07784 941439 or ken@kenmasters265.plus.com Friday June 9th – Sunday June 11th Bishop’s Palace Wells, English Country Garden Festival. Details www.bishopspalace.org.uk 01749 988111. See page 65.

Friday June 9th Draycott Village Hall, an evening of gospel choirs in concert for the RNLI featuring the Joyful Spirit Choir and Village Voices Community Choir, 7.30pm, doors open 7pm), bar, tickets £10 or £5 U-16. Details: meejlfh@gmail.com 01934 842304.

Mid Somerset Oxfam Group open evening and AGM in Wells Town Hall 7pm with guest speaker Richard Stedall, who previously raised around £10,000 in aid of Oxfam by travelling from Land’s End to John O’Groats (and back!) using only local transport routes, refreshments, including homemade cakes, available. Details: midsomersetoxfam.co.uk Saturday June 10th and Sunday June 11th Model Railway Show, Shepton and District Model Railway Society 42nd annual show, Doulting village hall, 10.30am – 4.30pm Saturday and 10am – 4pm Sunday, adults £4, accompanied children – U-12 free, 12–16yrs £2. Details: https://sheptonmrs.wordpress.com/ Saturday June 10th Mendip Society special interest wildflower walk, at Somerset Wildlife Trust’s Chancellors Farm reserve, Priddy BA5 3DA ST525 525, 2pm, numbers limited to 25. Details: Gill 01934 742508.

Congresbury Book Sale, 9am-1pm at War Memorial Hall, good quality books, jigsaw puzzles, dvds, cds and talking books.

Family Storytelling in the Theatre Bar, Wells Little Theatre, Chamberlain Street, Wells. BA5 2PS, 3pm, with Sarah Mooney, resident storyteller on the SS Great Britain and former Storyteller in Residence for the Roald Dahl foundation, unreserved seating, £3 per person.

Red Stories in the Theatre Bar, Wells Little Theatre, Sarah Mooney is joined by incredible musician

W h a t ’ s

Jerome O'Connell, includes installation by artist Dorrie Joy, unreserved seating, tickets £8 (conc £6), 7.30pm.

Oakhill Village Festival a day full of activities and fun, with Mendip Brass Band in the afternoon and Harlem Rhythm Cats in the evening, proceeds to local school and church, bar, hog roast, 2pm Ashwick/Oakhill Village Hall and Recreation Ground.

Brent Knoll Village Fete, 2pm on the Village Green, this year’s theme is ‘A Medieval Fayre’, entrance by programme £1, children U-14 free, on sale at the village shop, on the gate. Details: 01278 760986.

Butleigh Church Fete at St Leonard’s Church green, Butleigh, BA6 8SA, fun for all the family at this traditional village fete, 2pm – 4.30pm.

Cheese and Wine, Cloford Manor Barn, Nr. Frome, 6.30pm-9pm, in aid of Postlebury churches. Details: 01373 836229 01373 474721/or 01373 836322.

Sunday June 11th Frome Town Walk. Organised by the Frome Society for Local Study. They set off at 2.30pm outside the Round Tower in Justice Lane and are designed to give an understanding of the development of the history and economy of the town from its foundation in 685 to the present day. Free but donations welcome.

Chew Valley 10k, Bishop Sutton, from 9.30am.

Details: www.chewvalley10k.co.uk Somerset Wildlife Trust, east Mendip group, walk Great Cheverell Hill, with Mick Ridgard, meet at lane off B3098 ST970532, 2pm, adults £2.50, children £1.

Monday June 12th Congresbury Memorial Hall Club Friendship evening with a game of bingo, non-members welcome, 8pm at Congresbury War Memorial Hall.

Tuesday June 13th Mendip Decorative and Fine Arts Society, Sunflowers and Lumiere – the Art of Vincent van Gogh, talk after the AGM, 10am, by the Rt Revd Christopher Herbert, Bath & West Bar & Restaurant, B & W Show Ground, Shepton Mallet BA4 6QN, 11am, guests welcome. Details www.mdfas.org.uk 01934 862435.

Clevedon Art Club David Parfitt demonstrates watercolour techniques at the Sixth Form Centre, Clevedon School 7.30pm, non-members £3.

Wednesday 14th June Street Men's Shed: 10.30-12pm, Victoria Field Social Club skittle alley, Leigh Road, Street. Get involved in this new venture for men looking to meet others and work on a range of projects. No experience necessary! Meets fortnightly. FFI: Health Connections Mendip on 01373468368.

Thursday June 15th Redhill Village Club classic car and motorcycle BBQ Meet from 7pm, all enthusiasts are welcome to park up for a chat and meet like-minded people, held on the Recreation Field (BS40 5SG). Details: 01934 862619.

West Mendip walkers moderate 9-mile circular walk from Creech St Michael, OS Map Ex128. ST`275255, start 10am, park in car park. Details: Tony Strange 01934 733783/07976902706 or anthonyestrange@gmail.com Friday June 16th Chew Valley RNLI summer event, Chew Valley Lake Sailing Club, with the Frampton Footwarmers, a Dixieland Jazz Band. Details: Keith Williams 01275 332221 keith.williams617@btinternet.com Saturday June 17th Mendip Society walk around Star, Winscombe, meet 2pm at Apple Acre, down the lane by the side of the Star Inn BS25 1QF. Details: Mary 01934 843789.

Rowberrow Fete, in the garden of The Manor House, grand draw with fabulous prizes, classic car display, art exhibition, live music, children’s sports, teas and all your favourite stalls.

Claverham Village Market in the village hall,10am

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– noon, not to be missed veg, meats, fish, cakes, cards, jewellery, plants, wooden items, paintings, fair trade stall, tea/coffee. Details: Jean 01934 838017.

All Saints’ Church, WSM, BS23 2NL, Ann Clewlow, soloist Jo Thorn, the Vocalise choir ‘The Octets’ and ‘Simply Six’ perform such favourites as ‘Panis Angelicus’, ‘The Lord bless you and keep you’ and ‘A Bouquet’ from ‘My Fair Lady’, tickets £8 on the door and include a delicious light lunch and a free glass of wine, 12noon.

Ubley Village Fete, with Chew Valley Dancing School and Congresbury Brass Band, Old Manor Gardens, 2.30pm.

Sunday June 18th The Exeter Recorder Orchestra concert, St Cuthbert’s Church, Wells, 3pm, adults £8, students £3, U-11s free. Details: Rachael Shearmur 01626 890617 or email rachaelshearmur@gmail.com Bishop’s Palace, Wells Peter Pan with the Chapterhouse Theatre Company. Details: www.bishopspalace.org.uk 01749 988111.

Tuesday June 20th NADFAS lecture, Undressing Antiques, Caryford Hall, Castle Cary, BA7 7JJ, 11am, free parking, £6.

Details: 01963 350132.

Midsomer Norton Townswomen’s Guild, talk by Dr James Buckle “Medicine in the Third World”, 2pm, St John's Church Hall, BA3 2HX. Details: 01761 413528.

Congresbury Over-60’s Club talk entitled Colour in the Garden – Summer by Don Everitt followed by a sale of plants, Congresbury War Memorial Hall, 2.304pm. Details: 01934 832004.

Thursday June 22nd West Mendip walkers leisurely 5-mile circular walk from Rookery Farm, OS Map Ex142 ST603482, start 1.30pm, park on roadside. Details: Jenny Nicholas Tel: 01934 853639 or jennymr7@aol.comjennymr7@aol.com “What should we be eating for general health and wellbeing?” Join Dr Murdoch from Wells Health Centre for an inspiring and free talk at Wells Town Hall 6.45pm – 8.30pm., talk one of a series of three, booking essential. Details: mendip.healthconnections@nhs.net or phone 01373 468368.

Saturday June 24th Congresbury Singers celebrate 40 years of singing with a concert in St Andrew’s Church, serious items with the odd bit of pastiche thrown in, spirituals, Gilbert & Sullivan and Offenbach, together with some solos and duets, all showing the great variety of music the choir has performed over the last 40 years. Tickets £8 including refreshments can be obtained from the Post Office or on the door.

Mendip Society walk, orchids in Edford Meadows, meet 2pm in the playing fields car park, Brewery Lane, Holcombe, BA3 5EG, ST 672 499, a 4-mile walk over high meadows and wild flower reserves to Old Coleford. Details: Terry 01749 840752.

Taize and Teas, Stoke St Michael Church, come along and join in singing Taize’ chants or just sit and listen, enjoy one hour of rest and relaxation in our lovely village church away from the stresses of everyday life, no charge but donations to the church funds welcome, teas, coffee and biscuits are available afterwards, 4pm.

Congresbury Book Sale, 9am-1pm at War Memorial Hall, good quality books, jigsaw puzzles, dvds, cds and talking books.

Somerset Wildlife Trust, east Mendip group, walk Ubley Warren, with Mick Ridgard, park by SWT reserve on B3134 ST503554, 2pm, adults £2.50, children £1.

Sunday June 25th Midsomer Norton and Radstock Silver Band – A Musical Picnic in the Park, 6pm at The Ammerdown

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Centre gardens, Radstock, tickets £7 on the door, £5 if purchased in advance, children U-16 free, available from the Ammerdown Centre 01761 433709 or the band 07758460090.

Langford Court open gardens in aid of Farmlink, 12pm – 5pm, tickets £3.50, U-16s free, available from Trug stores in Wrington or Wedmore or on the gate on the day.

Monday June 26th The Wessex Stationary Engine Club, presents a talk "Two penneth of poison – the history of poisoning of a Bristol family” by Penny Deverill, 7.30pm at the Old Down Inn, Emborough, BS3 4SA, all welcome, free entry. Details 01225 754374.

Congresbury Memorial Hall Club friendship evening with a game of bingo, non-members welcome, 8pm at Congresbury War Memorial Hall.

Wednesday June 28th – Saturday July 1st The Bradfordians Dramatic Society, Romeo and Juliet, at the Tithe Barn, 7.30pm, tickets £12, £10 concessions from Wiltshire Music Centre, wiltshiremusic.org.uk 01225 860100. Details: www.thebradfordians.com Wednesday June 28th Backwell and Nailsea Macular Support, 1.30pm, Backwell W.I. Hall, when the speaker will be from the Friends of Bristol Eye Hospital. Details: Sheila, 01275 462107.

Thursday June 29th, 30th and July 2nd Bishop’s Palace, Wells Hamlet with Wells Theatre Company. Details: www.bishopspalace.org.uk 01749 988111.

Thursday June 29th West Mendip Walkers strenuous 14.3mile circular walk from Blenheim Road, Minehead, OS Map Ex OL9 SS971466, start 10am, park in nearby car park.

Details: Vi Howley 07711 662993 or vihowley@btinternet.com Friday June 30th Concert in aid of Somerset Trust for Arts & Recreation and PROMISEWorks. The Brue Boys, supported by The Village Folk, students from Heathfield Community School and The SPACE. Tacchi Morris Arts Centre, School Road, Taunton, TA2 8PD. 7.30pm. Tickets £12.50 from the box office (01823 414141) or book online at: tacchi-morris.com Friday June 30th – Sunday July 2nd Yeo Valley Lions Club, Claverham Beer Festival, in aid of local voluntary organisations and charities as well as other Lions projects, tickets £8, includes a souvenir glass and first pint, lunchtimes 12.30, evenings 7.30pm. Details: www.claverham-beerfestival.co.uk Saturday July 1st Summer Nights is another eclectic selection of music being presented by Spectra Musica and musical director Peter Leech in St. Michael’s Church, North Cadbury, with concert pianist Anita D’Attellis and a string quintet, 7.30pm, tickets £12. Details: 01963 350160 or tickets@spectramusica.co.uk Mendip Society walk Beacon Batch and Burrington Ham, meet at 2pm by the Burrington Inn (BS40 7AT) ST 476589, use adjacent public car park on the B3134, a five-mile walk with a long climb up to Beacon Batch. Details: Peter 01761 221995.

Wedmore Street Fair stalls, food, drink, entertainment in The Borough.

Chewton Mendip village fete, 1pm in the school

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Farrington Gurney village day celebrating the 20th anniversary of the village hall, stalls and attractions on the playing field, live music Friday and Saturday nights.

Sunday July 2nd Romulus and Remus Italian Festival, Beech Barrow, Hillgrove, Penn Hill, Wells from midday.

Charity fundraising event in aid of Dorset and Somerst Air Ambulance, First Response, St. John’s Ambulance, British Heart Foundation and Orchard Vale Trust. Tickets £12.50 (5-11s £7.50 – under 5’s free) includes food and live music or bring your own picnic. Bar, bouncy castle and vintage car display.

Tickets in advance from: Julie Bollini (07929 926490) or Tony D’Ovidio (07770 994652).

Tuesday July 4th Mendip Decorative and Fine Arts Society 1925 Paris Arts Decoratifs Exhibition, a talk by Mary Alexander Bath & West Bar & Restaurant, B & W Show Ground, Shepton Mallet BA4 6QN, 11am, guests welcome. Details www.mdfas.org.uk 01934 862435.

Thursday July 6th Screening of film ‘Fixing Dad’, the story of an ordinary family’s battle with Type 2 diabetes, Q and A and optional Tai Chi for Health session, part 2 of a series of free health and wellbeing sessions at Wells Town Hall 6.45pm – 8.30pm, booking essential!

Details: Email mendip.healthconnections@nhs.net or phone 01373 468368.

Friday July 7th – Sunday July 9th Priddy Folk Festival music, dance, food, drink and fun for all the family. Details: www.priddyfolk.org Saturday July 8th Mendip Society special interest visit to Arnos Vale Cemetery nature trail meet 1.30pm at the cemetery, Bath Road, studiosBristol (BS4 3EW), limited to 25 people. Details: Richard 01275 472797.

Duck Race, Plume of Feathers, Rickford, from 5pm, family fun, barbecue, three bars, live music. Details: www.theplumeoffeathers.com Friends of St James, Winscombe, Jazz in the Paddock, 7pm, next to the church (BS25 1DE), with The Big R Big Band, gates open 6.30pm, tickets £10, U-16s £4, family two adults and two children £25, available from the church office and local businesses.

Cantilena Choir concert: WE GOT RHYTHM .

Music from the Americas with supper. Featuring ukulele band Simply Uke. 7.30pm, St Michael’s Church, Park Road, Shepton Mallet BA4 5BP. Tickets £10 (children £1) available from: Dicketts The Stationers, 6 High Street, Glastonbury or by phoning: 01278 722870 or 01458 835136.

Thursday July 13th Mendip Society visit to the Bristol Blue Glass Studios, Bath Road, Bristol BS4 3EW, max 10/12 people, booking essential. Details: Richard Frost 01275 472797.

Preparing “real food” putting theory into practice, part 3 of a series of free health and wellbeing sessions at Wells Town Hall 6.45pm-8.30pm, information and inspiration, cooking demos and tasters, recipe share – bring one along for a chance to win a slow cooker, booking essential! Details: mendip.healthconnections@nhs.net or phone 01373 468368.

MENDIP MINDBENDER ANSWERS FOR JUNE Across: 4 Goughs, 6 Babcary, 11 Tyntesfield, 13 Air, 14 Pylle, 15 Cleese, 16 Moth, 17 Cave, 18 Late, 20 Fleet, 21 Batts, 22 Ebdon, 23 Arm. Down: 1 John, 2 Ham, 3 Lye, 5 Haynes, 7 Cameley, 8 Way, 9 Nempnett, 10 Adge Cutler, 11 Thrubwell, 12 Cary, 15 Castle, 16 Mells, 17 Combe, 19 Peak.

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R O YA L B AT H & W E S T SHOW TICKET WINNERS

Shipham shows

WHAT’S ON

Last month we teamed up with the Royal Bath and West to give readers the chance to win family tickets to the show, which runs from May 31st to June 3rd. The first five correct answers drawn were from D. Robertson, Writhlington, Sheila Matthews, Shepton Mallet, Mrs J. Young, Bishop Sutton, Mrs S.M. Smith, Wedmore and Mrs C. Merritt, Frome.

Charity Day for MND and Dementia At Lavenoak House Burrough Street, Ash Somerset TA12 6NZ On 1/7/17 11am to 3pm.

Craft stalls, large raffle, Tombola, refreshments and more Table top sales – any one interested in a table it is £5 For more information please contact Jane on 07799 386961

Mendip Times reduces travel costs 100,000 potential customers within a short distance of your business

SHIPHAM Players presented another of their popular supper evening productions, with two one-act plays Talk in the Park from the confusions collection by Alan Ayckbourn and Party

by Tom Basden, Pictured are members of the cast of Party, Steve Dodd, Mervyn Brown, Nick Dawes, Jo Crozier Cole, Kate Price and Mark Trenchard.

Businesses get the abbey habit

A NEW corporate membership scheme at Glastonbury Abbey has attracted its first support from businesses.

The scheme has been launched as a way of involving businesses in supporting the abbey and enabling the community to utilise its facilities. Amongst the benefits Amy Bentley, from PC PCs of corporate membership are to be able to host networking events within the abbey, tickets for events and membership cards.

Membership manager James Stone said: “We are hoping it will be useful for local businesses who may want to use the abbey to entertain clients or simply as somewhere restful for their employees to go during breaks.”

Glastonbury-based IT business PCs PCs and Sherborne Web Design were the first to sign up. Amy Bentley, PCs PCs, business manager, said: “We are really pleased to be part of the scheme and have already made use of some of the benefits.”

Paul Cooper, director at Sherborne Web Design, said: ““We are have worked with the team at Glastonbury Abbey for over 10 years and have always viewed it as a mutually beneficial partnership. This new initiative helps bring us and the wider business community Sherborne Web Design’s Paul even closer to the abbey.”

Cooper For details, email membership@glastonburyabbey.com

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